SNAP-Ed Success in Butte-Silver Bow

Published: 2022
By Jennifer Friedberg

The new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Education Instructor began with MSU Extension in January 2022. Since then, she has reached more than 12 community members through direct education and has continued a strong partnership with the Silver Bow Developmental Disabilities Council (SBDDC) which manages the county’s SNAP/Double SNAP program. The SNAP Education Instructor has increased the amount of fresh local produce getting into the hands of community members through the distribution of Double SNAP Dollar coupons that class participants receive when they complete a lesson. These coupons can then be redeemed at the farmer's market for $10 extra dollars to be spent on fruits and vegetables. In partnership with SBDDC, the SNAP Education Instructor has also increased the quantity and diversity of produce found at the Butte winter farmer's market, now in its second year. Working with the Western Montana Growers Co-op, SNAP-Ed and SBDDC bring fresh Montana-grown produce to each market, making the healthy choice the easy choice for community members shopping at the market.