Update - October 24, 2025
Governor Newsom has announced $80 million in state funding to release to the foodbanks. Sacramento is earmarked for $2.9 million in direct assistance to foodbanks. However, the County disperses more than $50 million a month in CalFresh benefits. The Governor is also deploying the National Guard to assist food banks in food distribution.
At this time, the county is working closing with local food banks to understand their current needs. Before donating anything to your local foodbank, please call them and ask what they need to maximize the usefulness of your donation.
To find the foodbank closet to you, please visit the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services online navigator tool.
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Update - October 23, 2025
As of Oct. 23, the Federal government is still shutdown. Because of the shutdown, at this time CalFresh benefits will not be funded for the month of November. In Sacramento County 270,000 people rely on those food benefits to feed themselves and their family. Thousands of children will be affected by the loss of food benefits in November.
Because of this impending food crisis, Sacramento County is working diligently to alert impacted clients, work with local food banks and assistance organizations to provide food to families in need and advocate for help from the state.
The Department of Human Assistance (DHA) is alerting all CalFresh recipients through multiple communication channels, including text, social media and lobby messaging.
“This federal shutdown has created significant uncertainty for families who rely on CalFresh. While the County does not control federal funding, our focus is on making sure residents have clear information and know where to turn for local resources,” said Ethan Dye, Director of Human Assistance. “We are in close communication with our partners at the State and with community organizations so that everyone has the same, accurate understanding of what’s happening and what help is available.”
Anyone with questions is encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit the California Association of Food Banks website to locate food resources in their community.
Interested in helping? Contact your local foodbank and ask what donations would help the most.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this happening?
The Federal government is currently at a standstill to pass the budget. Because there is no budget, federally funded operations, programs and services will not receive funding. CalFresh is a federally funded program administered by the State of California and counties. With no federal funding available, November benefits will not be issued unless the federal government reopens.
When will benefits be funded?
At this time there is no estimated time the benefits will receive funding, as long as the federal government remains closed.
Can I still use the benefits I have?
Yes, if your EBT card still has funds on it, they can be used as normal. However, the benefit amounts will not reload in the new month.
For more information and Frequently asked questions, visit our webpage.
How can I help?
Consider volunteering or donating to your local food bank. Visit http://www.sacramentofoodbank.org/find-food to find one near you.