Colorado Food Pantries in Crisis as Farm Bill Deadline Looms

As the deadline for a new farm bill approaches, food pantries in Colorado are grappling with increased demand as economic hardships persist.

The desperation felt by many Coloradans is unmistakable. Families who once visited food pantries on a monthly basis have now doubled in number due to the struggles of making a dollar stretch. With bills to pay and necessities to prioritize, accessing affordable food has become a luxury for countless individuals and families in the state.

The farm bill, up for its five-year reauthorization, holds vital programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). These crucial programs provide sustenance to millions across the nation, including Colorado's food pantries. The looming expiration of the current farm bill adds to the urgency to pass a new bill, ensuring organizations can continue serving their communities.

TEFAP plays a pivotal role in supplying food pantries nationwide, allowing them to stock their shelves and serve those in need. Erin Pulling, CEO of the Food Bank of the Rockies, highlights the significant impact of TEFAP, stating that it typically provides 30% of their total food supply. However, due to inadequate funding, that support has decreased to a meager 13%.

While some lawmakers acknowledge the importance of passing a new farm bill promptly, past experiences indicate a potential delay in meeting the upcoming deadline. Similar debates and disagreements over various programs derailed progress five years ago. While programs like SNAP and TEFAP may continue operating if the deadline is missed, uncertainty looms over their long-term funding and stability.

The economic realities leading to these shortages cannot be divorced from broader national policies. President Biden's economic agenda, known as Bidenomics, has failed to address key issues affecting food security. Consequently, Coloradans find themselves caught in an unending cycle of financial strain, struggling to put meals on their tables.

Colorado's food pantries say they are at a critical juncture, and the timely passage of a new farm bill is essential to ensure adequate funding for programs like TEFAP. The economic hardships faced by families underscore the urgent need for this critical support.