LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – May is “CalFresh Awareness Month,” a month of public outreach to increase awareness and enrollment in CalFresh, California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Lake County Social Services recognizes the need to reduce hunger by increasing participation in food assistance benefits, particularly for the elderly, disabled, families and children.
On June 1, more than 3,600 elderly and disabled SSI recipients in Lake County may be newly eligible for CalFresh benefits.
SSI recipients can start pre-applying on May 1, and if eligible would start receiving benefits no earlier than June 1.
Current CalFresh households with an SSI household member do not need to apply, changes will be applied to your case at your next periodic report, or you can call your worker to request changes be applied sooner.
Currently, 11,237 individuals are enrolled in CalFresh in Lake County. With more than 64,000 people residing in Lake County, it is estimated that only about two-thirds of those eligible are receiving CalFresh.
Many households may be unaware that they qualify. For example, a family of four making up to $4,184 per month may be eligible for CalFresh.
The application process is simple and secure, no office visit is required.
After the application is filed, the interview is completed by telephone, and documents are submitted online or by mail.
Most applications are decided within 30 days, sooner if eligible for Expedited Services.
CalFresh recipients choose and purchase their own food from grocers using an EBT card, which works much like an ATM card.
To apply for CalFresh benefits, go to www.getcalfresh.org.
You can also apply by calling 707-995-4200 or visiting 15975 Anderson Ranch Parkway, Lower Lake, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.