Longmont Pizzeria Offers Free Food to Families Affected by SNAP Suspension
Antonio's Real New York Pizza in Longmont is providing free pasta, bread, and pizza slices to families impacted by the federal SNAP benefit suspension, with plans to expand the program to its Estes Park location.
The restaurant announced on November 5 that it has established a donation rack stocked with fresh pasta, loaves of bread, and other dry goods available to any family in need. Children can receive free pizza slices, and adults affected by the benefit suspension can show their SNAP or EBT card to receive free pasta and bread.
"No kid should be a pawn in the game of life," the restaurant stated in its announcement, emphasizing its commitment to supporting local families during the disruption.
The business plans to increase the volume of food assistance throughout the week and has opened a donation link for community members who wish to support the effort.
Growing Community Response to SNAP Crisis
Antonio's initiative joins a growing wave of Northern Colorado businesses responding to the SNAP suspension. Federal government shutdown suspended November SNAP benefits for approximately 615,000 Colorado residents, including 34,000 in Larimer County.
Several Fort Collins establishments have launched similar programs. Philippe French Bistro began offering free Beef Bourguignon meals to affected residents on November 2, while Friendly Nick's Butcher raised $75,000 for meat distribution beginning November 4.
The Weld Food Bank reported demand doubling as the benefit freeze left thousands of households scrambling for food assistance.
SNAP Program Background
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture but administered by Colorado's Department of Human Services. Benefits are distributed through the Colorado Quest EBT card, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services.
Larimer County food banks received a $650,000 emergency grant to address increased demand, though officials indicated the funding falls significantly short of the need created by the benefit suspension.
Antonio's Real New York Pizza has locations in Longmont and Estes Park. The restaurant's Estes Park location is scheduled to begin its food assistance program this week.
Families seeking assistance can visit Antonio's Real New York Pizza in Longmont to access the donation rack or speak with staff about available food resources.