County Marks CalFresh Awareness Month, Connecting People to Food Resources
The County is recognizing CalFresh Awareness Month this May and highlighting local outreach efforts that help residents apply for CalFresh and connect with food resources in their communities.
CalFresh serves more than 373,000 San Diegans. The program provides monthly supplemental food benefits that help people buy nutritious, healthy food and stretch their food budget.
“Every household deserves access to healthy food,” says Alberto Banuelos, Ph.D., Interim Director, County Self-Sufficiency Services. “CalFresh Awareness Month is about connecting residents with resources that help them meet daily needs and make a real difference.”
CalFresh is California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. Since 1964, SNAP has been helping individuals and families access fresh, healthy foods with the goal of reducing food insecurity.
CalFresh food benefits can be used at most grocery stores, select online retailers, and many farmers’ markets. A list of authorized retailers is available at SNAP Retailer Locator.
People who want to learn more about eligibility can call 2‑1‑1 to apply by phone or apply online at BenefitsCal.com. Eligibility and benefit amounts vary based on household size, income and certain living expenses.
A full list of free, public CalFresh Awareness Month events is available on the CalFresh website.