What is CalFresh?
CalFresh is a supplemental nutrition assistance program funded by the USDA to help improve health and nutrition of families with low incomes. CalFresh is critical to good nutrition for many families and individuals in Butte County. This program increases household food budgets, allowing families to put healthy and nutritious food on the table.
Who is Eligible for CalFresh?
CalFresh is for all types of people that fit within the eligibility guidelines. CalFresh is not only for mothers or for families with children. Fathers, single adults, people with disabilities and seniors may also be eligible for CalFresh. If a parent is ineligible, he or she can apply on behalf of his or her children.
CalFresh is an entitlement program. What does this mean? It means that those who qualify are entitled to receive this assistance and will not take someone else’s place or take money from another person or program. The USDA sets funds for the CalFresh program aside each year. In fact, each year, millions of CalFresh dollars go unused due to under participation.
When you apply, many factors such as household size and income are used to determine your eligibility. You can call 2-1-1 to be prescreened on the major eligibility criteria and to find out what the next steps are.
How Does CalFresh Work?
CalFresh benefits are deposited monthly on an EBT card that works like a debit card with a pin. You can check the balance online or over the phone. Benefits can be used to purchase food for human consumption, and seeds and plants that grow food for household use. CalFresh can be used almost anywhere food is sold such as supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and some ethnic markets so long as they accept EBT Cards.
How About Farmers’ Markets?
Many of the seasonal and year-round farmers’ markets in Butte County do accept CalFresh. In most cases you need to visit the market’s headquarter booth to withdraw/exchange CalFresh dollars for market coins that can be used to buy fresh produce, and plants that grow food.
Call 2-1-1 to find a market in your community that accepts CalFresh.
How to Apply
You can apply online at c4yourself or call 2-1-1 to find in person or over the phone application assistance in your area.
