LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — As summer break continues across the valley, local organizations are finding ways to support children outside of the classroom by providing free meals to students.
Nonprofit organization Chicanos Por La Causa is offering free breakfast and lunch to children during the summer through a partnership with Three Square and the Department of Agriculture.
Rita Barraza, a grandmother of five, said the program helps ease financial pressure during the summer months.
“I’m a single grandma, of course. And, you know, it gives me at least for lunch. They get a free lunch,” Barraza said.
Barraza said she lives on a fixed income and every dollar matters.
“I do have a son that lives with me that helps me out. Otherwise, there’s no way I would make it. You know, so, so providing us with one meal, they get something different than the regular Mexican meal that I make. So it really helps out,” Barraza said.
Program targets Latino community
Rudy Zamora, advocacy director for CPLC, said the organization is located in the heart of the Latino community.
“We are located right off of Maryland and Bonanza, which is the heart of the Latino community,” Zamora said.
While the program is open to everyone, many of the families walking through the doors each day are Hispanic families looking for support.
“This is an opportunity for students to have a safe location. And two meals a day, guaranteed breakfast and lunch,” Zamora said.
Barraza said asking for help is not always easy, but families should not be afraid to use the resources available to them.
“And if you need it, by all means, why not take advantage of the things that are out there for us,” Barraza said.
Any child 18 and under can receive a free meal at the location during the summer. Free meals are provided on weekdays.
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