Weld leads state in surging demand for SNAP food benefits

According to the Weld County Department of Social Services, staff are working overtime, overtime and on weekends to meet the recent unprecedented demand for food aid.

Weld leads the state, with the most applications (up 48%) for the federal food assistance program, SNAP (also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as Food Stamps) Increased has.

Weld currently handles 14,436 SNAP cases, but managed 9,763 cases in 2019. Pre-pandemic, SNAP’s average profit per month was $290, now it’s $490.

Weld’s Assistance Payments Division Director Andie Garnand said: I need help. ”

Increased funding during the pandemic may explain some of the increase, as people are looking at additional emergency allocations worth the effort to file an application, Garnand said. Demand for SNAP benefits has skyrocketed in recent months due to rising food prices.

“We’ve seen a surge throughout the pandemic, but I think this is probably the best it’s ever been and the state of the economy. Grocery. Come out and you spent $200.

Garnand said Weld is preparing for a reduction in monthly SNAP benefits starting in March. The comprehensive appropriations bill just passed by Congress includes an end to pandemic emergency quotas after February 2023.

In March, Guernand expects the changes to put pressure on customers and create new demand for local food banks. “While this may reduce some of our applications, we are prepared to increase client contact as it will impact families who have relied on additional benefit amounts to support their families,” Garnand said. says Mr.

Weld is also experiencing a population boom. Housing costs in other parts of the state may also contribute in part to the demand for SNAP benefits seen in Weld. “I think some families are looking for more affordable housing outside of metropolitan areas,” Garnand said.

To learn more and find out if you are eligible for SNAP, please visit https://cdhs.colorado.gov/snap.