FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Over half a million people across central California continue to go without SNAP benefit, also known as CalFresh in California, as federal funding ran out over the weekend.
Fresno County says its households’ benefits typically amount to $46 million per month.
“So far none of that has been issued and we are awaiting state and federal guidance to see what happens next,” said Sanja Bugay, Fresno County Department of Social Services director.
The Central California Food Bank (CCFB) says it’s been inundated with people in need.
“We had so many individuals reaching out to us that our phone lines actually crashed,” said Kym Dildine, CCFB co-CEO.
On Tuesday, President Trump announced on social media that SNAP benefits will not go out until the government is back open.
But the day before, a federal judge ordered the Trump administration use emergency funds to partially pay for the benefits.
“We are in an unprecedented, uncharted territory,” Bugay stated.
In Fresno County more than 246,000 people rely on CalFresh benefits, which is just over 24% of the population. In Tulare County, it’s close to 27% and in Madera County, it’s a stark 37%.
All of which now don’t know when they could see benefits return as there’s no end in sight for the government shutdown.
The central California food bank is stepping up to meet the need in the meantime.
“Our online appointment grocery pickup, we increase service hours, two hours a day. Additional 80 households per day through the end of November,” Dildine explained. “We are increasing food access at all our distribution sites.”
The food bank says it is well-positioned to help short term, but long term would be difficult.
Fresno County is still processing CalFresh applications and suggests anyone needing help in the meantime to turn to local food banks.
Anyone wishing to donate their time, money or food can do so on the food bank’s website.
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