Report shows roughly 1 of every 14 Montanans relies on SNAP benefits for food

MONTANA — About 81,000 Montanans relied on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in 2024, according to data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

This number accounts for about 7% of the state's population. That comes out to about one out of every 14 Montanans.

SNAP provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families across the state.

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reports that about 63% of SNAP clients are in families with children. More than 43% of Montana's SNAP clients are in working families.

Additionally, more than 38% of Montana's SNAP clients are in families with members who are elderly or disabled.

The Montana Food Bank Network is promoting its SNAP Application Assistance Program to help connect locals with food assistance benefits.

The program helps guide clients through the SNAP application and re-certification processes. Trained assistants help individuals understand eligibility requirements, gather necessary documentation, complete applications and navigate follow-up steps.

In fiscal year 2024-2025, the program helped more than 600 Montanans submit SNAP applications.