After Record-Breaking Shutdown, Colorado SNAP Benefits Will Return

The Longest Government Shutdown in U.S. History Comes to an End

The longest government shutdown in United States history has come to an end.

On Wednesday, November 12th news broke that the House of Representatives passed a bill that would fund the government with a final vote 222 to 209.

The House Republicans voted together to pass the funding package, according to CNN.

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What the New Government Funding Bill Includes

President Donald Trump quickly signed the bill which keeps the funding for most government agencies at last year's levels until the end of January, according to reports.

This bill provides funding for multiple government agencies until the end of September 2026, specifically SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

How the Shutdown Impacted Colorado Residents

Many in Northern Colorado have been affected by this specific aspect of the government shutdown. People and businesses all across the Centennial State stepped up to assist those in need.

Fort Collins Businesses Step Up to Help SNAP Recipients

Friendly Nick's Butcher in Fort Collins was giving away a pound of ground beef, pork shoulder, chicken breast, chicken drums or wings, and six wings to those who show EBT or Federal ID.

Read More: Volunteer at Nick’s Butcher Helping Families in Fort Collins 

Chicken Salad Chick Offers Free Meals for Kids in Need

That's not the only business that's been helping NoCo residents out.

Chicken Salad Chick, a restaurant in Fort Collins has been helping out families struggling to feed their children.

Every day, the restaurant has been offering children a free Little Chick meal (Sandwich/Scoop Plate, Side, Cookie, and Pickle) with no purchase necessary.

Read More: Northern Colorado Restaurant Chain Providing Free Kids Meals Every Day While SNAP Benefits Stop

Colorado Officials Move Quickly to Restore SNAP Benefits

In a statement from Colorado government officials, the state is working to deliver 100% of November's SNAP payments "as rapidly as possible" as soon as Thursday.

There are 600,000 Coloradans that are opted into this program. The SNAP benefits and funds are expected to start showing up on the beneficiary Electronic Benefit Transfer Cards by November 13th at the earliest.

Governor Jared Polis Thanks Communities for Stepping Up

“The federal government is finally reopening, and hardworking Americans will no longer be caught in the middle of Washington’s dysfunction. I thank Colorado’s food banks, the Department of Human Services, and our local communities for their efforts during this unprecedented time. Keeping people from going hungry should always remain a top priority,” said Governor Jared Polis.

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