Missoula Food for Fines Program Returns as Federal SNAP Benefits Remain Suspended

MISSOULA — As tens of millions of people are at risk of losing federal food and nutrition benefits as a result of the ongoing government shutdown, including the nearly 42 million people who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Missoula is launching a local initiative to address growing food insecurity.

The Missoula Parking Commission announced Sunday it is bringing back its Food for Fines program for November, allowing residents with outstanding parking citations to pay their fines with non-perishable food donations for the Missoula Food Bank.

The timing is significant. SNAP runs out of money Nov. 1, with USDA officials warning that November SNAP benefits may not be funded if the shutdown continues, potentially affecting approximately 42 million Americans who rely monthly on SNAP to help pay for groceries.

“Throughout the year, the Parking Commission gives financial assistance to many organizations in support of our mission to work with government entities, businesses, and residents to provide and manage parking and parking alternatives,” the commission stated in its announcement. “With the hope of stretching beyond our mission and giving back to our community, this year we are proud and excited to bring back our Food for Fines program.”

The program runs from Monday, Nov. 3, through Friday, Nov. 28, during normal business hours at the Parking Commission office at 128 W. Main St. The office will be closed Thursday, Nov. 27, for Thanksgiving.

Each non-perishable food item counts as $2 toward a citation, with the commission accepting up to 10 items per person for the month. All items must be unopened, undamaged, and not expired. Residents can check their outstanding citations by entering their license plate number at www.ci.missoula.mt.us/tickets.

The initiative directly supports the Missoula Food Bank during a critical period when some states are leaning on relief funds or launching new ones to provide support for those who would usually count on SNAP, with some states sending funds to food bank systems in their region.

The federal crisis has prompted varied responses across Montana’s political spectrum. Last week, Missoula Republicans organized a food drive while local activists planned protest demonstrations at the county courthouse as the shutdown entered its second month.

USDA officials have openly stated that there will be insufficient funds to pay full November benefits for approximately 42 million recipients if the shutdown persists, with November’s payments depending entirely on new appropriations or a shutdown resolution.

The Food for Fines program represents a practical local solution as federal food assistance remains suspended. The commission emphasized its partnership with the Missoula Food Bank “in an effort to support a hunger-free Missoula.”

“Once again, we are partnering with the Missoula Food Bank in an effort to support a hunger-free Missoula,” the commission stated in its announcement.