Why Montana Needs the Double SNAP Dollars Program

Prior to COVID-19, 1 in 10 Montanans, including more than 36,000 children, struggled to afford all the food they need. Food insecurity in Montana is projected to increase by nearly 30% in 2020, with an additional 32,000 Montanans at risk of hunger. Many of these families participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) to keep food on the table, however, affording healthy food can be difficult. Research shows that incentives such as Double SNAP Dollars are effective at increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, which has lasting positive impacts on health. 1 in 3 Montana farmers markets accept SNAP benefits, and that number is growing. These markets are an important sales outlet for many small farms in Montana. Double SNAP Dollars encourage families to spend their SNAP dollars locally, bringing increased revenue to Montana’s farmers while improving access to healthy, Montana-grown produce for low-income families. Learn More Here.