CalFresh is California’s food assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families access healthy food. Benefits are provided through an EBT card, which can be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets to buy essentials like bread, rice, and nuts. This program ensures better nutrition and food security for those in need.
CalFresh programs are designed to enhance food security and nutrition for low-income individuals and families in California. These programs include:
CalFresh Outreach: Educates eligible individuals about benefits and assists with the application process to improve access to food assistance.
CalFresh Healthy Living (SNAP-Ed): Promotes healthy eating and active living through nutrition education and resources, empowering families to make informed dietary choices.
CalFresh Employment and Training (E&T): Provides job training and support to help recipients enhance their skills and secure stable employment, promoting self-sufficiency.
CalFresh Disaster Response: Offers temporary food benefits to those affected by natural disasters, ensuring immediate access to nutrition during recovery.
CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP): Allows eligible recipients, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities, to purchase prepared meals from participating restaurants, enhancing food access.
California Food Assistance Program (CFAP): Extends benefits to individuals who do not qualify for federal CalFresh assistance, particularly certain immigrant populations, ensuring they have access to necessary nutrition.
Emergency Food Programs Section (EFPS): Provides funding and support to food banks and emergency food programs, helping to address hunger and food insecurity in communities.
SUN Bucks: Offers matching funds for purchasing fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets, promoting healthier eating habits and supporting local agriculture.
Online Shopping: Allows EBT cardholders to purchase groceries online via approved retailers.
Healthy Eating: Promotes nutrition by covering fresh produce and wholesome foods.
Financial Relief: Reduces the burden of food expenses for eligible families.
Farmers’ Markets: Offers discounts or bonus funds for fresh, local produce at farmers’ markets.
Nutrition Education: Provides resources to plan meals and make healthy food choices.
Support for Vulnerable Groups: Tailored benefits for seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
Disaster Aid: Ensures food access during emergencies or natural disasters.
Benefits of CalFresh
Food Assistance: Provides monthly benefits to purchase nutritious food.
Improved Health: Supports access to fresh and wholesome foods.
Economic Relief: Reduces financial strain on low-income households.
Convenience: EBT cards can be used at grocery stores, online retailers, and farmers’ markets.
Boosts Local Economy: Generates revenue for local businesses and farmers.
Nutrition Education: Offers programs to help beneficiaries make informed dietary choices.
Emergency Support: Provides food aid during natural disasters or crises.
Inclusive Support: Tailored benefits for seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
Where Can CalFresh Be Used
Grocery Stores:
Most major grocery chains, such as Safeway, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s, accept CalFresh EBT cards for purchasing eligible food items.
Farmers’ Markets:
Many farmers’ markets in California participate in CalFresh, allowing recipients to buy fresh, local produce. Some markets even offer matching programs to increase purchasing power.
Online Retailers:
EBT cards can be used for online grocery shopping at select retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, which provide home delivery and pickup options.
Convenience Stores:
Certain convenience stores that meet specific criteria also accept CalFresh, providing access to basic food items.
Meal Delivery Services:
Some meal delivery services are eligible for EBT payments, allowing beneficiaries to receive prepared meals.
Proof of Calfresh Benefits
CalFresh Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card: Your EBT card is your primary proof of eligibility and can be used to make purchases at authorized retailers.
Benefit Statements: You can request a benefit statement from your local county office or through the online benefits portal, which details your current benefits and eligibility status.
Online Account Access: Log into your account on the California Benefits portal (BenefitsCal) to view your benefit information and print any necessary documentation.
County Social Services Office: Visit or contact your local county social services office to request a letter or other documentation that confirms your CalFresh benefits.
Client Helpline: You can also call the CalFresh Client Helpline at 1-877-847-3663 for assistance in obtaining proof of your benefits.
Change your CalFresh Address
Go to the BenefitsCal website, which is the online portal for managing your CalFresh account.
Sign in to your account using your username and password. If you do not have an account, you can create one.
Once logged in, go to your profile or account settings where you can find the option to update your personal information.
Select the option to update your address. Enter your new address and any additional required information.
Review the information you have entered and submit the changes. You may receive a confirmation once the update is processed.
CalFresh is a program that helps low-income people and families buy food. It gives you money each month to spend on groceries at approved stores.
You can apply for CalFresh online, by phone, or in person at your local county office. The application asks for information about your income, household size, and other details to see if you qualify.
To qualify for CalFresh, you must meet certain income and household size requirements. Generally, low-income families, individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities can apply.
The amount of CalFresh benefits you receive depends on your household size and income. The program provides different amounts, with a maximum limit set by the federal government.
No, CalFresh benefits can only be used to buy food items, not household goods or personal items. Some exceptions exist, such as the Restaurant Meals Program, which allows certain prepared meals to be purchased.
