Montanans participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) received their full benefits by Saturday, the Department of Public Health and Human Services confirmed. Approximately 77,000 residents benefit from SNAP, with the average household in Montana getting $332 monthly. However, recipients faced delays this month in receiving their food assistance.
According to Western Native Voice, a nonprofit organization, recent federal shutdown negotiations impacted SNAP disbursements. The U.S. Department of Agriculture had instructed states to hold back SNAP payments, causing worry among Montana families and food banks anticipating increased demand.
Data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reveals that 63% of SNAP recipients in Montana are families with children. This disruption led Butte-Silver Bow to declare a local emergency, allocating $183,974 to combat food insecurity.
The USDA subsequently directed states to issue full SNAP benefits after the government shutdown ended. Although the current funding bill runs until Jan. 30, SNAP benefits have been secured through September 2026, as reported by National Public Radio.
Looking ahead, the USDA advised states to prepare for a potential shutdown next October by enhancing systems to facilitate partial payments, according to a report from States Newsroom.
