211 SONOMA

Delays to CalFresh Benefits

On October 21st the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) directed states to pause November SNAP (CalFresh) benefits until federal funding becomes available. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has instructed all counties to comply with this directive.

Here are some key points to help you navigate: 

• November CalFresh benefits will likely be delayed if the federal government shutdown continues past October 23.

• October CalFresh benefits are not impacted, and based on what we know, the funds can continue to be used into the future. However, there is a chance that EBT cards may be temporarily frozen after November 1.

• Supplemental Nutrition Benefit (SNB) and Transitional Nutrition Benefit (TNB) are not impacted and will issue as normal.

• CalWORKs benefits are not affected at this time.

• Clients do not need to reapply or take any action; benefits will automatically be issued when federal funding becomes available.

• CalFresh applications, Semi Annual Reports (SAR 7s), and recertifications will continue to be processed as usual. All recipients are encouraged to keep their eligibility up to date.

The County is partnering closely with the Redwood Empire Food Bank to make food available to the community during this time. If individuals need immediate food assistance, please direct them to:

• Redwood Empire Food Bank to locate a local distribution site.

• OpenDoorsSC.com to locate other community resources.

• Click here to find local food and meal information on the 211 Sonoma Website

• Text “Food” or “Comida” to 707-353-3882 to find food and meal information in your zip code

There is also a helpful FAQ document on the CDSS website regarding the shutdown and impacts to benefits: CalFresh Frequently Asked Questions