With the holidays around the corner, it’s important to remember that one in six seniors in Contra Costa County struggle with hunger. Although food insecurity is not a seasonal issue, the holidays can be an especially tough time for our low-income seniors while they manage to pay rent and bills on top of holiday gatherings and gift giving. If this is something you may struggle with, it’s important to be aware of available programs that may help with food insecurity.
CalFresh Expansion is the largest nutrition assistance food program in California that provides an essential hunger safety net for low-income qualified seniors. It serves California Seniors that are at least 60 years old, regardless of whether they receive SSI or SSP benefits. It may help you buy nutritious food for a better diet and better overall health. Here are some facts about the program:
- You can apply for CalFresh and still get benefits from other programs such as Meals on Wheels and food from senior centers.
- You may own your home and car and still apply for CalFresh benefits.
- It’s ok if you have savings or retirement accounts because you may still qualify for benefits.
- Benefits come on a plastic card that looks like a credit card or debit card, so it is private and easy to use.https://www.cdss.ca.gov/food-nutrition/calfresh
- These benefits can be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
- Older adults do not have to stand in line to apply for benefits. You can apply online, download an application, ask that an application be mailed to you, or apply by phone.
- If you have applied for CalFresh in the past and have been denied, you should apply again because the laws have changed, and it may be easier for you now.
- CalFresh Information Line: 877.847.3663