Fort Collins Bistro Launches Free Meal Program for Residents Losing SNAP Benefits
Philippe French Bistro in Fort Collins has launched a community meal program offering free Beef Bourguignon and potato gratin to residents affected by the suspension of SNAP benefits and federal workers impacted by the ongoing government shutdown.
The program, announced November 1, targets individuals who have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits or face furloughs or unpaid work during the federal shutdown. Eligible residents need only present their EBT or federal identification card to receive the ready-to-heat meals.
"I don't know how many people are facing food insecurity right now, but I know it's going to get worse," wrote owners Philippe and Rosi Boutinet in the announcement. The restaurant is covering all labor costs while seeking community donations through a GoFundMe campaign to purchase ingredients.
The initiative follows similar efforts by other Northern Colorado restaurants responding to increased food insecurity in the region. The program comes as approximately 34,000 Larimer County residents rely on SNAP benefits, according to recent estimates from Colorado lawmakers.
Data from the Food Bank for Larimer County indicates food insecurity affects 11.2% of county residents, slightly below Colorado's statewide average of 12.7%. The food bank distributed over 12.2 million meals' worth of food in the most recent fiscal year through direct-service programs and partnerships with nearly 130 nonprofit organizations across the county.
Demand for food assistance has surged in recent years. In January 2024, the Food Bank for Larimer County processed over 179 new family applications in a single week. Visits to Fresh Food Share Markets increased 32% year-over-year, with mobile pantries regularly serving more individuals than during COVID-19 surges.
Philippe French Bistro stated any funds remaining after SNAP benefits resume will be donated to the Food Bank for Larimer County. The restaurant plans to continue the program until "things come back to normal."
The initiative represents a growing network of community-based food security efforts supplementing traditional assistance programs. Such grassroots programs help bridge gaps for residents facing transportation barriers, language differences, or documentation requirements that may limit access to centralized food bank services.
The Food Bank for Larimer County serves over 30,000 individuals annually through community markets, mobile pantries, child nutrition programs, and senior meal services. The organization has set a goal of distributing 12.2 million meals annually by 2035.
Community members interested in supporting the bistro's meal program can contribute through the restaurant's fundraising campaign.