The ability of about 1 in 8 Americans to buy groceries could depend on the outcome of a showdown over whether President Trump’s administration must replenish SNAP food aid benefits for November, despite the government shutdown.
A key ruling from a judge considering the matter could come as early as Friday, but even if benefits cannot be suspended for the first time in SNAP’s 61-year history, many beneficiaries are likely to face delays in getting the debit cards they use to buy groceries reloaded. That can take one to two weeks, so it’s likely too late to get funds on cards in the first days of November.
In California, the nation’s most populous state, about 1.75 million households received SNAP benefits in 2023. Nearly 15% of households in Los Angeles County were on SNAP benefits. Imperial County in southeastern California had the highest percentage of households on SNAP benefits (28%).
Here are food banks and emergency resources for Southern Californians affected by the food aid program’s uncertain future.
Food banks in the Los Angeles area
Click the links below for a county-by-county list of food banks in Southern California. The counties also offer information on how to donate.
Southern Californians also can call 211 for nonprofit information and services.
LAUSD meals plan
The Los Angeles Unified School District will offer a meal plan for families. Free breakfast, lunch and dinner will be available for pick-up for all children.
LA County Parks food programs
Los Angeles County Parks offers a food program with meals for youth, teens and seniors. Click here for information and a list of locations.
Meals for seniors
The following programs offer meals and other resources for seniors in Southern California.