Long Beach: City Shares Information Regarding CalFresh Benefit Delays Due To Federal Government Shutdown
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The ongoing federal government shutdown has caused major concerns for the City of Long Beach and its residents. In particular, the impact on CalFresh, California's version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), has raised alarms for the approximately 1.5 million Los Angeles County residents who rely on this program to help pay for groceries.

According to recent reports, due to the shutdown, there will be delays in receiving November benefits for CalFresh recipients. This means that more than 93,000 children and adults in Long Beach alone will experience difficulties in accessing food through this critical program.

While CalFresh is administered by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), it is managed locally by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS). The City of Long Beach does not have a direct role in administering CalFresh, but it remains committed to keeping its community informed and connected to available local food resources.

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The State will be notifying CalFresh recipients about these temporary delays. It is important to note that these notices do not indicate a loss of eligibility or termination of benefits. Recipients are advised to continue submitting required reporting forms, such as the semi-annual report (SAR 7) and renewal paperwork, in order to prevent further delays once benefits resume.

In light of this situation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that no new CalFresh benefits will be issued on November 1st. However, any benefits that were issued prior to this date will remain active. Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards will continue to work and funds do not need to be spent by November 1st.

For those in need of immediate food assistance, there are several local and regional resources available. The Health Active Long Beach webpage offers links to various food assistance programs in the area. Additionally, WIC (Women, Infants & Children) provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals for qualifying families. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank also offers a search tool to find the nearest food pantry or residents can call 2-1-1 for assistance.

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In an effort to further support the community, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn has sponsored community food distributions at Admiral Kidd Park on Saturdays throughout November. Nonprofit organization Food Finders will be hosting these distributions at 9 a.m. on November 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd.

Residents are also encouraged to utilize the Food Oasis search tool to find free meal and pantry sites in their area. For those who are able, supporting local food banks is another way to help neighbors facing temporary food insecurity.

The City of Long Beach is working closely with Los Angeles County DPSS to share verified information and updates with community members and partners as they become available. To stay updated on the situation, residents can follow @LBHealthDept on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

For more detailed answers to common questions about CalFresh benefits during the federal government shutdown, individuals can visit the CDSS' Frequently Asked Questions page. Media inquiries can be directed to the Health Department's Public Affairs Office at HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov.

Filed Under: Government, City

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