What is SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income households in Colorado purchase food. It provides a monthly benefit that helps families and individuals buy the food they need for good health.

The benefit is provided based on income, resources and the number of individuals in the household. Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are used to receive the benefit and can be used similar to debit cards at participating food stores. The benefit can be doubled in value by shopping at participating markets and food stores that support the Double Up Food Bucks program.

SNAP is part of a federal nutrition program to help low-income households purchase food. County human services departments are responsible for determining eligibility and authorizing SNAP. 

SNAP is good for the local economy. Households participating in SNAP spend more on food. By providing more resources for food, SNAP helps free up cash for households with low-income to buy other essential items, like diapers and medication. As a result, retail sales increase, benefiting stores that sell both food and non-food items.

NOTICE: SNAP Households Will See Reduction in Benefits to the Pre-pandemic Monthly Amount Beginning March 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress authorized Emergency Allotments to help meet food needs. These Emergency Allotments are temporary and will be ending in March 2023, decreasing the total amount of benefits each month for SNAP households in Colorado.

We know this change may have a significant impact on many SNAP families. To help reduce the impact on households, families can:

• Roll over EBT benefits to the next month, if they are able to. This may help cushion the impact of the reduction in benefits. 
• Stock up on non-perishable items now, while households have the additional benefits. (View tips on stocking your pantry in English or Spanish.)
• Stretch food ingredients and plan to use them in more than one meal. This helps to save money and reduce food waste. (View tips on stretching ingredients in English or Spanish.)
• Consider freezing produce to make fruit and vegetables last longer. (View tips on freezing food in English or  Spanish.)
• Look at unit prices to compare similar products at the grocery store. (View tips on comparing prices in English or Spanish.)
• If you or someone you know needs help with food resources, you can click here to find the closest food pantry to you. 
• SNAP participants can call their local county human services office for questions about their benefits.

For more information, click here.

Please see the State of Colorado's Program Eligibility and Application Kit to determine if you are eligible for benefits or check the status of current benefits. 

Food Pantries in Clear Creek County

Clear Creek County has resources for you if you are in need of food.  Below local food pantries or ways to get food if needed:

• Clear Creek County Health and Wellness Center: located at 1969 Miner Street in Idaho Springs (2nd Floor) there are shelves stocked full of food for those in need. People can come in anytime Monday through Friday from 8:30-4:30 and take what they need.
• Loaves & Fishes: located at 545 Hwy 103, Loaves & Fishes is a faith-based, non-denominational ministry supported by the churches of Clear Creek County, individual donations of food and funds, and grant funding. Their hours are Wednesdays (donations only) from 11:00-4:00 Thursdays from 11:00-4:00 and Fridays from 11:00-4:00.
• RoundAbout Bus Service: Food is available on buses for anyone who needs it on Thursdays and Fridays courtesy of Loaves & Fishes.