DENVER - Today, the United States Department of Agriculture announced it will not use contingency funding to ensure food access for families and children who rely on SNAP as the shutdown of the Republican-controlled federal government continues. A recent USDA memo also states that states that step up to cover the cost of keeping families fed will not be reimbursed.
“Colorado is stepping up to provide access to healthy foods, ensuring families and children don’t go hungry, while the Republican controlled Congress fails to open up the federal government . In Colorado, we love everyone and take hunger seriously. I am so disappointed to see the federal government seems to have no urgency or desire to stop families from going hungry,” said Governor Polis.
“Hardworking families shouldn’t be forced to choose between paying for health care, prescription drugs, or food. Colorado will continue to do everything we can to ensure people don’t go hungry while the Republican controlled Congress turns its back on Coloradans who deserve access to food,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera.
On Wednesday, Governor Polis made an emergency request for $10 million dollars from Colorado’s Joint Budget Committee to support Colorado Food Banks and Pantries. This money will bolster food access through these community resources for families who rely on SNAP.
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