You deserve healthy food
The friendly staff at the Food Bank would like to help you apply for CalFresh to stretch your grocery budget.
What is CalFresh?
The CalFresh program is a federal nutrition program that helps people with low incomes buy more food and improve their diets. Benefits are received monthly on a plastic EBT card (like an ATM or debit card), and can be used to buy groceries at more than 250,000 grocery stores and many farmers’ markets.
Common Myths About CalFresh for Seniors
“Other people need CalFresh
more than I do.”
CalFresh is available for everyone eligible, including seniors. In fact, special rules make it easier for seniors to get CalFresh. By applying you will not be taking benefits away from others.
“It’s too hard to apply for CalFresh”
Friendly Food Bank staff will help you find out if you may be eligible and start the simple process of applying. An application can be mailed to you, or you can fill it out over the phone or online with our help.
“I get SSI, so I can’t get CalFresh”
SSI RULES HAVE CHANGED YOU MAY NOW ALSO QUALIFY FOR CALFRESH BENEFITS
As of June 1st, if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI/SSP), you may now also qualify for CalFresh benefits! If you have tried to apply for CalFresh or have not applied because you were told you do not qualify for CalFresh because of SSI/SSP, we encourage you to try again.
“I always felt there were other people that need it more than me… but after I had gone three days without eating, I was so hungry.” – Mary age 90 on why she applied for CalFresh
“I’ll only get $15 a month, it’s not worth it.”
The average benefit for a senior living alone is about $100.
“What can I purchase with CalFresh?”
Use CalFresh to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and more. While you shop with your benefits, you are also helping the local economy.
“I own my house so I won’t qualify”
You can have savings, a house and cars and still qualify.
CalFresh Help for Seniors
If you have questions or need more information about the CalFresh Program, please contact the Food Bank by emailing [email protected], or calling 925-603-3316.
