Wages and Stipends Grant
The Wages and Stipends Grant from the Colorado Department of Education funds increased pay for school food service staff to strengthen school nutrition programs across Colorado.
Funder: Colorado Department of Education
Due Dates: June 30, 2027 (anticipated application submission deadline in GAINS for the Wages and Stipends Grant)
Funding Amounts: Up to $0.12 per lunch served in SY 2024-25; one-year grant term; total award based on prior lunch counts.
Summary: Supports increased wages and stipends for Colorado school food service staff to enhance recruitment, retention, and recognition.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Wages and Stipends Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) School Nutrition Unit, provides funding to eligible school nutrition sponsors to increase wages and offer stipends to frontline food service workers. The program is intended to recognize the essential role of school nutrition staff, strengthen recruitment and retention, and improve compensation for those serving students in Colorado schools. Funding is allocated based on the number of lunches served during the 2024-25 school year, with funds to be used during the 2026-27 school year. This initiative is part of CDE’s broader commitment to supporting innovative and effective school nutrition programs.
