Archuleta County faces a looming hunger challenge this November as a federal funding lapse delays the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Colorado.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has not released funds due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, leaving Colorado unable to issue approximately $120 million in November SNAP benefits until federal funding is restored.
Impact on families and local services
Experts warn that the gap could push more households to rely on local food banks, with Archuleta County communities bracing for a surge in demand throughout the month.
Local leaders estimate that families who depend on SNAP to feed their households may experience increased financial strain, increasing the pressure on area food pantries and community meal programs.
“Food security is a community issue,” said Steven Viola, the Pagosa Community Initiative’s (PCI’s) family development coordinator. “When SNAP benefits are delayed, our neighbors — neighbors who already juggle tight budgets — must turn to charitable resources. PCI and partner organizations are stepping up to help, but we can’t do it alone.”
Community calls to action
Charitable organizations across the region, including PCI, are inviting residents to support in three key ways:
• Donate food: Nonperishable items can be dropped off at PCI’s food shelf program or any partner food bank location, including those operated by local churches and nonprofit groups.
• Give funds: Financial contributions enable food pantries to purchase perishable items and stretch limited resources during high-demand periods.
• Volunteer time: Volunteers are needed to sort, stock and distribute food; assist with intake at distribution sites; and help coordinate drives.
PCI’s food shelf program and partners
PCI operates a hunger-relief food shelf program that serves Archuleta County and collaborates with local churches and other nonprofit agencies to meet need.
The coming month will test the resilience and capacity of these networks, underscoring the importance of community participation.
Voices from the community
“When SNAP is delayed, every extra donation makes a real difference in a family’s meal plan,” said a PCI volunteer. “We’re mobilizing to ensure that no one in Archuleta County goes hungry this November.”
A representative from a partnering church food pantry added, “We’ve seen demand rise in past shortages. We’re prepared, but we need the community’s support to meet it.”
What’s next and how to get involved
• Short-term focus: PCI and partner networks will ramp up distribution capacity, coordinate with schools and supplement food banks to cover the anticipated increase in need.
• How to participate: Visit PCI’s website or contact the PCI office to learn how to donate, volunteer or host a food drive. Community members can also connect with local food banks directly for immediate needs and intake information.
• Stay informed: The following organizations are providing support to affected families:
Our Community Eats, 197 Navajo Trail Drive, (970) 902-0130, ourcommunityeats.com, weekly food distribution and donation site.
St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church Food Pantry, 225 S. Pagosa Blvd., Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon, stpatrickspagosa.org/food-pantry. Offers food boxes and fresh/frozen items.
Pope John Paul II Catholic Church Food Pantry, 353 S. Pagosa Blvd., Wednesdays from 9 to 11 a.m., ihmjp2.org/food-pantry. Weekly food distribution for families and individuals.
Healthy Archuleta/Food System and Food Equity Coalition, 80 County Road 600, (401) 206-4579, foodcoalition4archuleta.org. Coordinates the countywide Food Pantry Network and mobile food pantry.
Archuleta County Department of Human Services (DHS), 550 Hot Springs Blvd., archuletacounty.org/230/Medical-Food-and-Financial-Assistance. Manages SNAP and food assistance benefits.
PCI, 550 B Hot Springs Blvd. (under DHS), Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., (970) 585-6521, familysupport@pagosacommunityinitiative.org. Small emergency shelf to supplement families who can’t make food bank hours.
About PCI
PCI unites neighbors to address local needs through volunteerism, collaboration and transparent stewardship. The organization mobilizes volunteers, partners with local institutions and channels resources to expand access to essential services, including hunger relief, throughout Archuleta County.
Call to action
Every contribution — no matter how small — helps ensure that no one in Archuleta County goes hungry this November. If you can lend a hand, start with a food or funds donation, or volunteer your time.
Your involvement strengthens the whole community.
Contact information
You can contact PCI at (970) 585-6521, Familysupport@pagosacommunityinitiative.org or www.pagosacommunityinitiative.org.
