California SNAP Benefits Get New Update as Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles

Californians who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can now see additional help as the Los Angeles wildfires ravaged the state.

CalFresh, which is California’s version of SNAP benefits, is now allowing recipients to request benefit replacement for lost food during the Los Angeles wildfires.

Why It Matters

California sees roughly 3 million individuals rely on SNAP benefits each month.

As many of the state’s residents have lost their homes due to the widespread wildfires in the Los Angeles area, the monthly food benefits could be even more crucial this month as Californians look to make ends meet.

What To Know

Those who receive CalFresh, otherwise known as California’s SNAP benefits, can request benefit replacements for lost food if they were impacted by the wildfires.

The wildfires ravaged Southern California last week and were responsible for at least 24 deaths. Many acres and entire neighborhoods have been completely destroyed.

Because of this, Californians will be eligible for SNAP benefit replacements. The state is also using $1 million in emergency funding to send 25,000 food boxes to the region.

The benefit update will allow them to purchase hot food in Los Angeles and its surrounding counties through February 8 because many recipients may be without cooking facilities or food storage due to the wildfires.

What People Are Saying

California Health and Human Services Agency Secretary Kim Johnson said in a statement: “California remains committed to fighting food insecurity — a commitment that is especially important during times of great need, such as disasters, when many families have been displaced or suffered great losses. These emergency food benefits and timely flexibilities will have an immediate impact, helping ensure that people have food during a very challenging time.”

Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: “We’ve seen California do this in the past to meet the needs of those affected by natural disasters, and it’s the right call. CalFresh using additional emergency funds for benefit replacement, purchases of hot foods, and food box distribution are all pivotal ways to offer assistance to those who have lost property and possessions as a result of the fires. It’s important for people affected to visit CalFresh’s website or call a representative to verify details on when and how these items will be distributed.”

What Happens Next

Recipients will also be able to use a waiver for replacement benefits until February 5. If you are in need of replacement benefits, you may call the Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services at (866) 613-3777.