Refugees are forced to flee their homes and countries because of persecution, war, and violence. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reported that there were 19.5 million refugees worldwide at the end of 2014, 51% of whom were children under the age of 18. Colorado happens to be a major state for refugee resettlement with upwards of 2,400 refugees resettled every year, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services.
Most of these refugees find homes in Denver where life is very different from what they have ever known. That is why Growing Colorado Kids exists: to provide refugee youth a community of support where they gain a sense of belonging and vital skills needed to navigate life in the United States. All of the youth participants qualify for free and reduced lunch. So, in addition to developing leadership, teamwork, and scholastic abilities, they work collaboratively to grow food for their families.