GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - September has been "Putting Kids 1st" month, an effort to help raise money for hungry kids in Mesa County.

People have been asked to brown bag their lunch on Thursday, September 27th, and save the money they would have spent to give to Kids Aid, the backpack program, and The House - a place for homeless teens.

MBC Grand Broadcasting radio stations have been working hard on spreading the word about the brown bag initiative.

"The generosity in this community just blows my mind everytime we do something," said Wendy Likes, promotions director for MBC Grand Broadcasting. "We're really thankful that we've been able to stand behind this and put the kids first, and hopefully the rest of the community is going to as well."

For those unable to pack a lunch, multiple restaurants have joined alongside the program to offer "Brown Bag Specials". The funds from their specials willb edonated to the program.

Qdoba, Papa Kelsey's, Kannah Creek Brewing Company, Papa John's Pizza, Applebee's, and Wraps on Main are all participating in Thursday's outreach.

To conclude the month-long initiative, a radio-thon will be held at the Rimrock Walmart on Saturday, September 29th, from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Businesses and restaurants will present their checks to "Putting Kids 1st"