More Federal Cuts In Montana, Now On Crucial Foods

BUTTE, MT - Montana’s food banks are bracing for a difficult year ahead as federal emergency food assistance funding has been significantly reduced.

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The impact of these cuts is already being felt across the state, and local organizations are working quickly to adapt before critical shortfalls take hold.

Let's jump right into it.

$2.5 Million in Cuts, 600,000 Pounds Less Food

In March, the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) experienced a $2.5 million drop in federal support, a 40% reduction that could result in a loss of approximately 600,000 pounds of food distributed over the next year.

The cuts come at a time when many Montanans are already struggling with the rising cost of living, and local food banks say demand for assistance is only increasing.

“We’re seeing more people than ever,” said MFBN Executive Director Gayle Carlson told KRTV. “Groceries cost more, people are being laid off, and we’re expected to stretch fewer resources even further.”

Local Partners Hit Hard

MFBN distributes food to 73 partner agencies across the state.

One of those, Billings Family Service, anticipates it will lose about 140,000 pounds of food this year as a result of the funding cuts. This will affect the amount and variety of items they can offer families in need.

“Protein is always in demand—and unfortunately, it’s one of the first things we’ll lose,” said Debbie Anderson, Program Manager for Warehouse Development, to KRTV.

She added that protein-rich foods are especially important in Montana where hearty diets are common.

Community Asked to Step In

With fewer federal resources, local food banks are turning to the community for help.

Ed Ulledalen, a board member with Billings Family Service, urged Montanans to support food banks through donations and volunteer work.

The pressure comes at a time when state and national employment numbers have been shaken by layoffs, including 360 U.S. Forest Service employees who lost their jobs earlier this year. The ripple effects are being felt in food banks that already operate with tight margins.

Hope Despite Uncertainty

While the road ahead looks difficult, MFBN leadership remains hopeful. Carlson said the organization is looking at alternative sources, increased collaboration, and other strategies to continue meeting the needs of their communities.

As funding dries up, the burden may increasingly fall on neighbors helping neighbors—a scenario that’s all too familiar in the state’s rural, tight-knit communities.