October 22, 2025 | Colorado Springs, CO — As the federal government shutdown stretches into its third week, Colorado is bracing for a food assistance emergency that could leave hundreds of thousands of residents without critical support. Governor Jared Polis has issued an urgent call for $10 million in emergency state funding to bolster food banks and avert a crisis in hunger relief.

Federal SNAP Delays Threaten 600,000 Residents

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides monthly food benefits to low-income families, is at risk of disruption due to stalled federal operations. If the shutdown continues, November benefits may not be distributed on time, affecting more than 600,000 Coloradans who rely on SNAP to feed their families.

Food banks across the state are already reporting surges in demand, with some locations seeing double their usual traffic. “We’re seeing families who’ve never needed help before,” said a spokesperson for Food Bank of the Rockies. “The shelves are thinning, and we’re preparing for the worst.”

Governor Polis Proposes $10 Million Emergency Relief

In response, Governor Polis has submitted a formal request to the Colorado Joint Budget Committee for $10 million in emergency funding. The funds would be directed toward food banks, pantries, and community organizations to purchase supplies, expand distribution, and support staffing needs.

“This is not just a budget issue—it’s a moral one,” Polis said in a statement. “We cannot allow bureaucratic gridlock in Washington to starve Colorado families. Our state will step up.”

The proposal includes:

• Immediate grants to regional food banks
• Support for mobile food pantries in rural and underserved areas
• Emergency staffing and logistics funding for high-demand zones

Community Response and Legislative Support

Local leaders and nonprofit organizations have rallied behind the governor’s plan. State legislators from both parties have signaled early support, citing the urgency of the situation and the bipartisan nature of hunger relief.

“We’re not going to let politics get in the way of feeding our neighbors,” said State Senator Julie Gonzales. “This is about dignity and survival.”

What’s Next?

The Joint Budget Committee is expected to review the emergency funding proposal within the week. If approved, funds could be distributed as early as November 1—just in time to offset the potential SNAP delay.

In the meantime, Coloradans are encouraged to support local food banks through donations and volunteer efforts. Organizations like Care and Share Food Bank and Community Food Share are expanding hours and accepting emergency contributions.