Bozeman Municipal Court, HRDC Host Inaugural Food For Fines Event

BOZEMAN, Montana (Aug. 12, 2025) – Bozeman Municipal Court and HRDC are teaming up on an event that will help people pay fines and provide food to the community at the same time. The first-ever “Food For Fines” event will be held on Sept. 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bozeman Public Safety Center, 901 N Rouse Ave. 

During this event, defendants who are making monthly payments on fines can bring in food donations and receive credit towards those fines. They will receive a $10 credit per item with a maximum credit of 20 items or $200. Donations must be non-perishable.

“Due to income levels, not everyone experiences a $200 penalty the same way,” Judge Karolina Tierney explained. “Those who are low-income are going to feel that penalty much more significantly. That’s why we’re hosting this event. Defendants still need to be accountable for crimes they have committed, but by providing food items in lieu of cash, they can take responsibility, complete their sentence, and help a worthy cause at the same time.”

 There are a few caveats to the program. Defendants are ineligible to participate if they:

• Are paying only restitution.

• Have an active warrant and/or are in collections for fines/restitution.

• Have a deferred prosecution agreement.

• Are completing community service in lieu of fines.

 “Everyone deserves the opportunity to give back in meaningful ways. Every food item donated during Food for Fines will help us stock the shelves of our local food banks and make a real difference for our neighbors struggling to pay rent and still afford groceries. We’re proud to partner with the City of Bozeman on a program that uplifts our community in such a tangible, compassionate way,” says Heather Grenier, President/CEO of HRDC.

Those interested in learning more about the program can visit City of Bozeman’s website HERE.