The ongoing federal shutdown is poised to impact food assistance programs in Kern County, potentially affecting benefits for over 250,000 residents. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will run out of funds in two weeks. The Kern County Department of Human Services (DHS) warns that if the shutdown persists, benefits could be affected starting in November.
A spokesperson for the department stated, “As we receive more information, which may be fluid from day to day, we will continue to update the community.”
The Cal Fresh program, aiding over 200,000 low-income families with an average of $370 per month, and the Cal Works program, supporting over 50,000 people with an average of $877 per month, are both at risk. However, the DHS emphasized that this notice does not mean benefits are terminated or that beneficiaries will lose eligibility. They urge recipients to continue fulfilling all mandatory reporting requirements and to seek immediate assistance by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the CAPK-211 home page.
Savannah Oates from CAPK noted, “With that press release coming out, we’re basically saying we’re here. We’re to help with any kind of uncertainties any of our residents may have.”
During the shutdown, CAPK has reduced protein and dairy in their food giveaways and is preparing for Thanksgiving by increasing food drives.
Oates added, “We’re just basically moving with the times and pivoting as things are occurring. Because every day looks different. We just utilize the services we have and utilize the product we have to the best of our ability.”