Montana

Pregnant women and mothers in Montana have access to a range of food assistance and nutrition education programs designed to support their health and that of their families. Below are key resources available:

Food Assistance Programs

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program: The Montana WIC program provides supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum mothers, infants, and young children under five. WIC helps families access healthy foods, nutrition counseling, breastfeeding support, and health care referrals.

Eligibility: Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers (up to 1 year postpartum), non-breastfeeding postpartum women (up to 6 months), infants, and children up to age five. Applicants must meet income guidelines and reside in Montana; U.S. citizenship is not required. Learn more

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Montana SNAP provides monthly benefits via an electronic card (EBT) to help low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious foods. Pregnant women may qualify and, depending on their situation, may not need to meet work requirements.

Eligibility is based on income and household size; resources are also considered. Pregnant women often qualify even without employment.
How to Apply: Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person. Learn more

Food Banks and Pantries: Montana has several food banks and partner pantries providing emergency food assistance to families, including pregnant women and young children.

They include

• Montana Food Bank Network: Statewide network offering food assistance and SNAP outreach. Learn more

• Gallatin Valley Food Bank: Serving Bozeman and surrounding areas with groceries and meal programs. Learn more

• Missoula Food Bank & Community Center: Food pantry services and children's nutrition programs. Learn more

Nutrition Education Programs

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP): Montana EFNEP focuses on delivering nutrition education to low-income families with young children, helping them improve their diets, meal planning, and grocery budgeting skills.
Services: Hands-on classes in healthy cooking, food safety, and budget-friendly meal preparation.
How to Access: Contact your local Montana State University Extension office for EFNEP classes. Learn more

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Montana’s FMNP provides WIC participants with coupons to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs at approved farmers' markets, supporting access to locally grown foods.
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in the Montana WIC program.

By utilizing these programs, pregnant women and mothers in Montana can access healthy foods and receive valuable nutrition education to support their families' overall health and well-being.