SNAP + Food Assistance
Having enough food and healthy eating is important for your health, your mood, and your ability to focus on your goals. Whether you're working, studying, or taking care of kids, nutritious meals will give you the energy and strength you need to reach your goals and overcome challenges. If you have a baby or young children, good food is even more important.
There are programs that can help you and your family get the food you need. Food assistance programs like SNAP (sometimes called food stamps) can help you buy groceries. Additionally, there are also local food banks and other services that can help you.
On this page, you will find info about these programs, including how to apply. You'll also find links to other food resources in Mesa County.
What is SNAP?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) helps people buy the food they need for good health. SNAP gives you money on an EBT card, which works like a debit card. You can use it to buy food at grocery stores and some farmers' markets. Anyone who needs help buying food can apply.
How Do I Know if I Qualify for Snap?
You might be able to get SNAP if:
You don't have a lot of money coming in. We look at how much money you make and how many people are in your family. Every person and every family is unique.
You're working or in school, or you're looking for work.
Your children may be able to get SNAP even if you can't, as long as you meet a few other requirements. Please apply as soon as you can.
Remember, it's a good idea to apply even if you are not sure if you are eligible. We are here to help you find out what you qualify for.
Apply Today!
You might qualify for help, even if you’re not sure. The best way to find out is to start your application today! And if you don’t qualify right now, that’s okay—your situation might change, and you can apply again anytime.
How to Apply for SNAP:
Online:
Complete an application on the Colorado PEAK website.
Apply Over the Phone:
Reach out to the Mesa County Dept. of Human Services Call Center at (970) 256-2434 for help with:
Submitting an application
Eligibility questions
Checking your application status
Scheduling an interview
Paperwork questions
Reporting changes in your household or income
Medicaid and other medical programs
Request a SNAP Application:
Want a SNAP application mailed to you? Call the same number, (970) 256-2434, to ask for one.
Call Center Hours
Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM
What to Expect:
When you apply:
You’ll provide your name, address, and contact information. After that, we will schedule an interview.
During Your Interview:
We will ask you a few simple questions and may request some documents. Don't worry—most people won't need to provide all of them. Here are examples of what we might ask for:
Details about your job or school, if you’re working or studying
Something to show your age or your Social Security number if you have one
Basic information about your living costs, rent, and who lives with you
Details about any money you earn or have, if it applies to you
We will NOT ask you for:
Bank account statements
Phone or utility bills
Proof of your address
Visit the Colorado PEAK documentation page if you want to learn more, or wait until your interview to find out what we need.
How Do SNAP Payments Work?
If your family qualifies for SNAP, you will receive money to buy groceries through an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card. The amount of assistance you will get each month depends on a few things, like how many people in your family can get help and how much money you (or your family) make.
What is Colorado PEAK?
Colorado PEAK is an online service where you can apply for benefits such as Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+). It allows you to check your eligibility, submit applications, and manage your benefits all in one place. Colorado PEAK makes it easy to access the health care and financial support you need.
You can also apply for food assistance, cash assistance, and other benefits online using Colorado PEAK.
Is There a Mobile App?
Download the MyCOBenefits app to apply using your mobile phone.
Food Banks and Other Resources
If you need food right away, there are food banks and other resources that can help.
Western Slope Digital Food Resource Guide | Western Colorado 211
A detailed list of places where you can get food, like food pantries, mobile food programs, and other places that offer ongoing food help in different parts of Mesa County. It includes specific information about where they are, when they’re open, and how to contact them.
Food Bank of the Rockies
They have mobile food pantries and distribution centers in Mesa County. Anyone can get food here, no matter how much money you make.
Community Food Bank
They provide emergency food to hungry Mesa County individuals and families.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
This program helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children get healthy food, learn about nutrition, and get help with breastfeeding.
Additional Support + Services:
People receiving SNAP (Food Stamps) may also qualify for:
Colorado Works Program: also known as TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), which provides temporary financial assistance.
Healthcare: Low-cost or free healthcare through Medicaid.
Heating Assistance: Help with home heating costs through LEAP.
Applications for these programs can also be submitted through the Colorado PEAK website.
Need More Help?
Food Assistance is just one way Mesa County Passages can support you. Check out these other resources and services:
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Food + Grocery Assistance
Resources to help you access nutritious food.
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Medicaid + Healthcare
Healthcare options for your health and wellness.
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Cash Assistance
Financial support to help you meet your basic needs.
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Child Care + Child Support
Help getting child care and child support.
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Mental Health + Crisis Services
Resources for managing mental health and crises.
Your safety and well-being matter. If you are being abused or neglected or need urgent help, please call our hotline at 970-242-1211.