Oh SNAP: CalFresh benefits delayed throughout November

Graphic by Easton Clark, Photo Editor

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced food assistance recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) nationwide will have their November benefits delayed. The government had to reopen before Oct. 23 for federal food programs to remain on schedule. Now, recipients can expect delays throughout November.

CalFresh, California's implementation of SNAP, will specifically be affected, according to the California Department of Social Services.

Due to this, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced on Oct. 28 that California, along with over 20 other states, is suing the Trump administration.

Of the 5.5 million Californians who rely on CalFresh benefits, more than 60% are children or elderly. Serving both individuals and families, CalFresh provides monthly benefits to those with low incomes to help purchase groceries at most stores and some farmers markets with an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

Orange County has more than 300,000 people who rely on CalFresh. 

Panther Pantry is Chapman’s supplemental food resource for those in the Chapman community facing food insecurity. In their October newsletter, they explain the details of the shutdown and how students will still have access to other services. 

“We’re working closely with county partners to ensure students have continued access to food and benefits, even during uncertain federal conditions,” said senior case manager Miguel Calderon, who runs Panther Pantry.

Calderon said that the school has been keeping contact with the Orange County Social Services Agency (SSA) and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County regarding the federal government shutdown and its impact on CalFresh.

Calderon explained that SSA has confirmed that applications for CalFresh are still being processed and those approved will receive retroactive benefits once federal funding resumes. November benefits for current CalFresh members will also be retroactively issued once the shutdown ends, according to a press release by SSA.

Chapman will be hosting a CalFresh enrollment event on Nov. 10 with SSA’s Mobile Response Unit on campus to help students apply for services.

Aside from this, Calderon also said they will be expanding the hours of the Panther Pantry and hiring additional student workers to improve access, consistency and availability. They will also continue monthly newsletters for students to provide updates and accurate information about CalFresh and local food resources.

“Food insecurity is a growing concern nationally, and Chapman is committed to supporting our community with compassion, dignity and clear information,” said Calderon.

Due to the delay of CalFresh, recipients can call 211 or visit 211oc.org to be connected to food, housing and utility resources. Additionally, Chapman is offering other resources to support the community until the shutdown is resolved.