DPP Partner Spotlight: Struggle of Love Foundation

From community picnics and food pantries to school supplies and mentorship programs, Struggle of Love Foundation (SOLF) has provided essential comprehensive services to those most in need for nearly 26 years. Denver Preschool Program (DPP) has partnered with SOLF to provide early care and education resources for Denver’s youngest learners. 

Struggle of Love Foundation Founders Former DPP Tuition Recipients

SOLF’s founders, LaKeshia and Joel Hodge, were recipients of DPP tuition support and parents who needed community resources to survive. They created SOLF as a safe, loving community for anyone who needs a helping hand. 

“Back then, there were not a lot of resources and community supports available,” said LaKeshia Hodge, co-founder of the Struggle of Love Foundation. “Our lived experiences, like being homeless and standing in backpack lines with our kids, really shaped our perspective. Once we got on our feet, we felt like it was our responsibility to give back.” 

Today, the Hodges’ grandchildren benefit from DPP tuition support. “Educating families on their choice of preschools and the assistance that is available to them to ensure their kids get a safe, strong start is so important.” 

Struggle of Love Foundation: Safe, Supportive Community for All

The Struggle of Love Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Colorado-based organization that provides year-round, comprehensive services for children and families, many of whom do not qualify for other community-based support. Since its founding in 2006, SOLF has assisted thousands of children and families through outreach events, summer camps, afterschool care, food initiatives, toy drives, community picnics, mental health awareness and support, backpack giveaways, an annual hot Thanksgiving dinner, violence prevention, a community food pantry in the Montebello community and more (learn more on their website). 

They also provide their Spreading Our Love Mentor & Leadership Program at 12 schools throughout Denver, helping young people develop leadership and life skills through trusted, meaningful relationships. ​

“We want to make sure everyone knows about us,” LaKeisha said. “We offer 24/7 services and a safe space to receive services where people don’t need to worry about anything except getting back on their feet.” 

Join Us At the Reach4Peace Picnic June 21

For years, DPP has attended Struggle of Love Foundation’s events to provide information to families about how to save on preschool costs. One of the events we attend is their Annual Reach4Peace event, which is slated for Sunday, June 21 from 12 pm-4 pm. Join us for this important, fun event (learn more about the Reach4Peace picnic). 

“My kids and now my grandchildren are benefiting from DPP tuition support, so we’ve always felt like it was important to make sure other families know about these resources and get signed up,” said LaKeisha. 

DPP enjoys partnering with organizations like SOLF that have established, authentic connections to the community. 

In addition to attending events, be sure to follow the Struggle of Love Foundation on Instagram Và Facebook. You can also subscribe to their newsletter on their website.  

“If you or someone you know needs support, please have them reach out as we offer everything to meet their basic needs, like food resources and healthy food, free mental health therapy, violence prevention and more all in a safe, loving environment,” LaKeisha said.