Colorado is making it easier for families to eat healthier with a brand-new boost to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Starting this year, households on SNAP in Colorado can receive up to $60 per month in extra benefits when they buy fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. This program, called the Colorado SNAP Produce Bonus, is designed to stretch food budgets, improve access to nutritious foods, and help families enjoy healthier meals without added financial stress.
Table of Contents
How the SNAP Produce Bonus Works
The SNAP Produce Bonus is simple and automatic. For every dollar a household spends on eligible fruits and vegetables, an extra dollar is added to their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, up to $60 per month. These bonus funds aren’t restricted to produce; families can use them for any SNAP-eligible items at participating stores. There’s no need to apply separately everyone already receiving SNAP benefits in Colorado automatically qualifies. The program was introduced by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) in partnership with Nourish Colorado, and it builds on a successful 2024 pilot where over 99% of eligible participants used the bonus. This demonstrates the high interest and positive impact of this initiative (cdhs.colorado.gov).
The goal of this program goes beyond just providing extra money. It encourages families to purchase healthy foods, helping to improve nutrition across the state. In a time when food prices are rising, even a modest monthly bonus can make a real difference. Families can now afford fresh fruits, vegetables, and other wholesome items that might have been out of reach before, making healthy eating a realistic choice for everyone.
Where You Can Use the Bonus
The SNAP Produce Bonus can be used at over 30 participating locations across Colorado, including major grocery stores, food co-ops, and farmers’ markets. This ensures that both urban and rural communities have access to the program. Residents in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins can use the bonus at chain stores and local markets, while those in Colorado Springs, Loveland, and smaller towns like Leadville, Mancos, and Hotchkiss can shop at regional retailers and farm stands. Vendors such as Cloud City Farm and Farm Runners have seen strong participation, with many families returning regularly to take advantage of the bonus.
Eligible Foods for the Bonus
The bonus applies to fresh, frozen, or dried fruits and vegetables that don’t have added sugar, salt, or fat. Dried beans are also eligible, providing a nutritious and affordable source of protein. By focusing on these foods, the program not only helps families save money but also supports better eating habits. These small changes can make a big difference in overall health, especially for children and seniors who rely on SNAP to meet their nutritional needs.
How Much Families Can Gain
The bonus is capped at $60 per household per month, but families can increase their purchasing power significantly depending on how much they spend on eligible produce. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Produce Spending | Bonus Earned | Total SNAP Value |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $20 | $40 |
| $40 | $40 | $80 |
| $60 or more | $60 | $120+ |
This means a family that maximizes the bonus can gain up to $720 in additional benefits per year, money that can help cover essentials while encouraging healthier eating habits.
Quick Points to Remember
- No separate application is needed automatic enrollment applies to all SNAP households.
- Bonus funds can be used for any SNAP-eligible items, not just produce.
- Over 30 stores, co-ops, and farmers’ markets participate statewide.
- Eligible foods include fresh, frozen, or dried fruits and vegetables and dried beans, all without added sugar, salt, or fat.
Colorado’s SNAP Produce Bonus is a thoughtful initiative that makes healthy eating accessible and affordable. By offering a financial incentive for purchasing fruits and vegetables, the state is helping families eat better while also supporting local farmers and grocery stores. With automatic enrollment and wide availability, this program could serve as a model for other states looking to combine nutrition support with public health goals. For more details and to find participating retailers, visit the official Colorado SNAP Produce Bonus website.
