Free Lunches for Kids in Loveland/Fort Collins Area For Spring Break

It's great that most Colorado kids get to take a Spring Break each school year, but making sure they get a decent lunch can be a hassle. All kids around Loveland and Fort Collins can take advantage of the Lunch Labs.

How Long Has Food Bank for Larimer County Had Lunch Labs?

The Food Bank for Larimer County's free lunch program began with the summer of 2017; it was a few years later that they added the Spring Break offering. Five square meals, each with chocolate milk, free for every kid under the age of 18, with no need to register.

When Are the Spring Break Lunch Labs for 2026 Around Fort Collins?

The Poudre School District and Thompson School District will both be observing Spring Break the week of March 16-20, 2026, that's when the Lunch Labs will be available;  With St. Patrick's Day falling within that week, the menu for that day does incorporate some Irish and some "green."

What Time Can Kids Get Free Lunch During Spring Break?

Loveland  - 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. (Loveland Public Library.)

Fort Collins - 12:15 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Old Town Library)

The Lunch Labs Can Be More Than Just a Free Lunch

Having a place to show up at as a group, not only gives kids/parents a place to get the kids free meals, but also a place to congregate. Kids can make new friends, or meet up with current friends from school. My mom would have loved for me to jump on my bike to go get a free lunch, and get out of her hair for an hour.

What Are the Main Dishes for the Five Lunches with the Lunch Lab in 2026?

• Monday - BBQ pulled pork on whole grain hamburger bun.
• Tuesday (St. Patrick's Day)  -Turkey and potato hash (Green beans included.)
• Wednesday - Chicken tacos on whole wheat tortilla with cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
• Thursday - Beef and bean burrito on whole wheat tortilla with cheese, salsa, sour cream, and shredded lettuce.
• Friday - Baked ranch chicken.

Each meal is required to come with 1 oz. of Whole Grain, a vegetable, fruit, 1% or fat free milk.