The “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program”, otherwise known as SNAP, is a federally funded program designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase the food they need through monthly financial aid provided in the form of an electronic benefits transfer (EBT). The program helps individuals and families across the country keep food on the table and provides economic mobility by allowing those enrolled the ability to use funds on other basic needs such as housing and medication that would have otherwise been needed for groceries. 

Through federal legislation, SNAP emergency allotments were put in place in all states to increase benefits and help offset the economic impact of COVID-19 in 2020, helping millions of Americans put food on the table. However, beginning March 1, 2023, these emergency allotments are set to expire. The expiration of the emergency allotments will lead to an average decrease of $90 per person, per month. For a family of four, this leads to an average reduction of $360 per month. 

The end of emergency allotments for SNAP in Colorado will have a significant impact on many low-income families and individuals who rely on the program for food assistance. In the time period leading up to this change, our team is doing everything we can to prepare those using this program for the reduction in benefits. Through our internal resources and collaboration with our 40+ community partners, we will continue to connect people to information, food, and other resources for those living in Boulder and Broomfield Counties.  

Officials have emphasized that recipients will continue to receive their regular SNAP benefits as long as they remain eligible for this program. Your benefit amounts are based on several factors, including household size, income, and your specific circumstances. The SNAP program will continue to be a vital resource for a vast number of individuals and families, and we will continue to assist qualified individuals who have an interest in enrolling with their application process. 

To help families and individuals navigate this change, included below are a few different food resources that are available for those in need of support: 

  • Community Food Share’s food finder tool can help you find a food pantry or distribution site closest to you.     
  •  Our senior food program, Elder Share, provides free groceries to older adults ages 60+in Boulder and Broomfield Counties twice per month. 
  •  2-1-1 Colorado connects Coloradans with food assistance and many other types of help. 
  • Hunger Free Hotline (855) 855-4626 | A bilingual, toll-free number that connects Coloradans to needed food and nutrition resources statewide. 

 

For those in Boulder and Broomfield County who could use assistance applying for SNAP, we encourage you to reach out to one of our specialists. They can be reached at SNAP@Communityfoodshare.org or by phone at 303-949-7751.