How To Get On Food Stamps In California: A Comprehensive Guide?

Getting on food stamps in California, also known as CalFresh, can significantly improve your ability to afford nutritious food; foods.edu.vn offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the application process and understanding eligibility requirements, ensuring you can access this vital support. Discover helpful resources and application tips, empowering you to manage your food expenses more effectively and improve your overall well-being with nutritious meal planning, government assistance programs, and community resources.

1. What Are Food Stamps In California (CalFresh) And Who Is Eligible?

CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), provides monthly financial assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families to purchase nutritious food. It helps improve the health and well-being of recipients by increasing their access to healthy meals.

Eligibility Criteria:

Income Limits: Your household’s gross monthly income (before deductions) must be at or below certain limits, which vary based on household size. As of 2024, the gross monthly income limit for a single-person household is $1,772, while for a family of four, it’s $3,645.
Net Income Limits: Your household’s net monthly income (after deductions) must be at or below specific limits. As of 2024, the net monthly income limit for a single-person household is $886, and for a family of four, it’s $1,823.
Resource Limits: Your household’s countable resources, such as bank accounts and stocks, must be below $2,750. However, some resources, like your home and retirement accounts, are not counted.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must meet certain work requirements to maintain eligibility, such as working at least 20 hours per week.
Residency: You must be a resident of California.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.

Exemptions and Special Cases:

Students: College students enrolled at least half-time generally aren’t eligible unless they meet specific exemptions, such as working at least 20 hours per week or having a child under age 6.
SSI/SSP Recipients: As of June 1, 2019, recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or State Supplementary Payment (SSP) benefits are eligible for CalFresh in California.

For more detailed eligibility information, visit the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website or the CalFreshFood.org website.

2. How Do You Apply For CalFresh Benefits In California?

Applying for CalFresh benefits in California is a straightforward process. Here are the primary methods:

Online Application:
- Visit the GetCalFresh website. This is the most convenient method for many people.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Fill out the online application form. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your household income, expenses, and resources.
- Submit the application electronically.
Phone Application:
- Call the CalFresh Info Line at 1-877-847-3663. This line is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Russian. For speech or hearing assistance, call 711 Relay.
- A representative will guide you through the application process over the phone.
In-Person Application:
- Visit your county’s social services agency. You can find the contact information for your local office using the county office locator.
- Request a paper application form.
- Fill out the form and submit it to the office.

Required Documentation:

When applying, you will need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility. Here are some common documents you may need:

Identification: Driver’s license, state ID, passport, or other valid photo ID.
Proof of Income: Pay stubs, employer statements, self-employment records, Social Security statements, or unemployment benefit statements.
Proof of Residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, or other documents showing your address.
Proof of Expenses: Rent receipts, mortgage statements, utility bills, child care expenses, and medical bills.
Proof of Resources: Bank statements, stock statements, or other documents showing your assets.
Social Security Numbers: For all household members applying for CalFresh.

Interview Process:

After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for an interview with a county social services caseworker. This interview can be conducted in person or over the phone. The caseworker will review your application, verify your information, and determine your eligibility for CalFresh benefits.

Key Steps Summary:

Step	Description
1. Apply	Choose your preferred method: online, phone, or in-person.
2. Document	Gather all required documents to verify your income, residency, expenses, and resources.
3. Interview	Attend an interview with a caseworker, who will review your application and documentation.
4. Decision	Receive a notice of approval or denial. If approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process:

Be Prepared: Gather all necessary documents before starting the application process.
Be Honest: Provide accurate information on your application.
Be Responsive: Respond promptly to any requests from the county social services agency.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification on any part of the process.
Seek Assistance: If you need help with the application process, contact a local community organization or legal aid service.

3. Understanding Income Limits For CalFresh Eligibility In California

Income limits are a critical factor in determining CalFresh eligibility in California. There are two types of income limits: gross income and net income. Understanding these limits is essential for assessing your potential eligibility.

Gross Income Limits:

Gross income is the total household income before any deductions. As of 2024, the gross monthly income limits are as follows:

Household Size	Gross Monthly Income Limit
1	$1,772
2	$2,400
3	$3,029
4	$3,645
5	$4,262
6	$4,879
7	$5,496
8	$6,113
Each Additional Member	+$617

Net Income Limits:

Net income is the household income after certain deductions are subtracted from the gross income. As of 2024, the net monthly income limits are as follows:

Household Size	Net Monthly Income Limit
1	$886
2	$1,200
3	$1,514
4	$1,823
5	$2,131
6	$2,440
7	$2,748
8	$3,057
Each Additional Member	+$309

Allowable Deductions:

Several deductions can be subtracted from your gross income to determine your net income. These deductions include:

Standard Deduction: All households receive a standard deduction, which is $193 as of 2024.
Earned Income Deduction: 20% of earned income is deducted.
Dependent Care Deduction: Costs for child care or other dependent care necessary for you to work or attend training or school.
Medical Expenses: Medical expenses exceeding $35 per month for elderly or disabled household members.
Excess Shelter Deduction: Shelter costs (rent or mortgage, property taxes, homeowners insurance) exceeding half of the household’s income after other deductions. The maximum excess shelter deduction is $672 as of 2024, unless the household includes an elderly or disabled member.

How to Calculate Net Income:

Start with your household’s gross monthly income.
Subtract the earned income deduction (20% of earned income).
Subtract the standard deduction ($193).
Subtract dependent care costs, if applicable.
Subtract medical expenses exceeding $35 per month for elderly or disabled members, if applicable.
Calculate your shelter costs (rent/mortgage, property taxes, insurance).
Subtract half of the household’s income (after the above deductions) from the shelter costs.
If the result is positive, subtract the excess shelter deduction (up to $672, unless the household includes an elderly or disabled member).
The remaining amount is your net monthly income.

Example Calculation:

Let’s say a household of three has a gross monthly income of $2,800, earned income of $2,000, child care costs of $200, and rent of $1,000.

Gross Monthly Income: $2,800
Earned Income Deduction (20% of $2,000): $400
Standard Deduction: $193
Child Care Costs: $200
Income After Deductions: $2,800 – $400 – $193 – $200 = $2,007
Half of Income After Deductions: $2,007 / 2 = $1,003.50
Excess Shelter Costs: $1,000 (Rent) – $1,003.50 = -$3.50 (Since this is negative, there is no excess shelter deduction)
Net Monthly Income: $2,007

In this example, the net monthly income is $2,007. Since the net income limit for a household of three is $1,514, this household would not be eligible for CalFresh based on net income. However, it’s essential to check both gross and net income limits to determine eligibility.

Additional Considerations:

Income limits are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to verify the most current limits on the CDSS website.
Even if your income is above the limits, you may still be eligible if you have significant deductible expenses.
Certain types of income, such as SSI and some types of student financial aid, may not be counted towards the income limits.

4. What Documents Do I Need To Apply For CalFresh In California?

When applying for CalFresh benefits in California, you must provide documentation to verify the information you provide on your application. Gathering these documents beforehand can streamline the application process. Here’s a comprehensive list of the documents you’ll likely need:

Identification:
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Driver’s license
  - State-issued identification card
  - Passport
  - Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  - Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  - School identification card
  - Voter registration card
  - Birth certificate (for children)
- Purpose: To verify your identity.
Proof of Income:
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Pay stubs: Provide recent pay stubs covering at least 30 days.
  - Employer statements: A letter from your employer stating your wages and employment dates.
  - Self-employment records: Business ledgers, tax returns, or other documents showing your income and expenses.
  - Social Security statements: Benefit statements for Social Security Retirement, Disability, or Survivor benefits.
  - Unemployment benefit statements: Documents showing the amount and duration of unemployment benefits.
  - Pension statements: Documents showing pension or retirement income.
  - Rental income documentation: Lease agreements or other documents showing rental income.
  - Child support documentation: Court orders or payment records for child support.
- Purpose: To verify your household’s gross monthly income.
Proof of Residency:
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Utility bills: Gas, electric, water, or garbage bills showing your name and address.
  - Lease agreement: A current lease or rental agreement.
  - Mortgage statement: A recent mortgage statement.
  - Property tax bill: A current property tax bill.
  - Official mail: Mail from a government agency or financial institution showing your name and address.
  - Driver’s license or state ID: If it shows your current address.
- Purpose: To verify that you live in California.
Proof of Expenses:
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Rent receipts: Receipts showing the amount of rent you pay.
  - Mortgage statements: Statements showing your mortgage payments.
  - Utility bills: Gas, electric, water, or garbage bills.
  - Child care expenses: Receipts or statements from child care providers.
  - Medical bills: Bills for medical expenses exceeding $35 per month for elderly or disabled household members.
  - Insurance premiums: Health, car, or homeowners insurance bills.
  - Property taxes: Current property tax bill.
- Purpose: To verify deductible expenses that can lower your net income.
Proof of Resources:
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Bank statements: Statements for checking and savings accounts.
  - Stock statements: Statements for stocks, bonds, or other investments.
  - Vehicle registration: Documents showing the value of vehicles (only if the value exceeds $4,650).
  - Life insurance policies: Documents showing the cash value of life insurance policies.
- Purpose: To verify your household’s countable resources.
Social Security Numbers:
- Requirement: Social Security Numbers (SSN) for all household members applying for CalFresh.
- Acceptable Documents:
  - Social Security card
  - Social Security benefit statement
  - W-2 form
- Purpose: To verify the identity and eligibility of household members.

Additional Documents:

For Students:
- School enrollment verification: A letter from your school confirming your enrollment status.
- Financial aid documentation: Documents showing the amount and type of financial aid you receive.
- Work study documentation: Documents showing your work study employment.
For Non-Citizens:
- Immigration documents: Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Document, or other immigration documents.
For Individuals with Disabilities:
- Medical records: Documents verifying your disability and related medical expenses.

Tips for Gathering Documents:

Start Early: Begin gathering your documents as soon as possible to avoid delays in the application process.
Make Copies: Make copies of all documents for your records.
Organize Documents: Keep your documents organized and easily accessible.
Ask for Help: If you need help gathering documents, contact your county social services agency or a local community organization.
Verify Requirements: Check with your county social services agency to confirm the specific documents required for your case.

Having these documents ready when you apply for CalFresh will help ensure a smoother and faster application process.

5. How Are CalFresh Benefits Issued And Used In California?

CalFresh benefits are issued monthly via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which functions similarly to a debit card. Understanding how benefits are issued and how you can use your EBT card is essential for managing your food budget effectively.

Issuance of Benefits:

EBT Card:
- Once approved for CalFresh, you will receive an EBT card in the mail.
- This card is reloadable and will be used to access your monthly CalFresh benefits.
Benefit Schedule:
- Benefits are deposited onto your EBT card each month according to a specific schedule determined by the last digit of your case number.
- The schedule varies by county, so check with your local social services agency for the exact dates.
Accessing Your Balance:
- You can check your EBT card balance online through the ebtEDGE website.
- You can also check your balance by calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card.

Using Your EBT Card:

Eligible Purchases:
- CalFresh benefits can be used to purchase most food items, including:
  - Fruits and vegetables
  - Meat, poultry, and fish
  - Dairy products
  - Bread and cereals
  - Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
  - Seeds and plants for growing food
Ineligible Purchases:
- CalFresh benefits cannot be used to purchase:
  - Alcoholic beverages
  - Tobacco products
  - Hot prepared foods (with some exceptions)
  - Non-food items (e.g., cleaning supplies, pet food, hygiene products)
Where to Use Your EBT Card:
- Your EBT card can be used at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets that accept EBT.
- Look for the EBT or SNAP logo at the point of sale.
Making a Purchase:
- At the checkout, inform the cashier that you will be using your EBT card.
- Swipe your card in the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
- The amount of your purchase will be deducted from your EBT balance.
- You will receive a receipt showing your remaining balance.

Farmers’ Markets and CalFresh:

Many farmers’ markets in California participate in the Market Match program, which allows you to double your CalFresh benefits when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables.
Visit the market’s information booth to learn how to use your EBT card and receive Market Match vouchers.

Online Grocery Shopping:

Several major grocery retailers, such as Walmart, Amazon, and Safeway, now accept EBT cards for online grocery purchases in California.
Check with the retailer for specific instructions on how to use your EBT card online.

Protecting Your EBT Card:

Keep your EBT card and PIN secure.
Do not share your PIN with anyone.
Report a lost or stolen EBT card immediately by calling the EBT customer service number.
Be aware of scams targeting EBT cardholders.
Never give your EBT card number or PIN to anyone over the phone or online.

Additional Tips:

Plan your meals and create a shopping list to make the most of your CalFresh benefits.
Compare prices at different stores to find the best deals.
Buy in bulk when possible to save money.
Take advantage of farmers’ markets and Market Match programs to access fresh, local produce.
Consider using online grocery shopping for convenience and to avoid impulse purchases.

6. What Are The Work Requirements For CalFresh In California?

CalFresh has work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) to encourage self-sufficiency and employment. Understanding these requirements is crucial for maintaining your eligibility for benefits.

General Work Requirements:

ABAWD Definition: An ABAWD is an individual aged 18-49 who is physically and mentally fit to work and does not have any dependent children.
Work Requirement: ABAWDs must work at least 20 hours per week, participate in a qualifying work program for at least 20 hours per week, or meet certain exemptions to maintain CalFresh eligibility.

Ways to Meet the Work Requirement:

Working at Least 20 Hours Per Week:
- This can include any type of paid employment, whether full-time or part-time.
- You must provide documentation of your employment, such as pay stubs or employer statements.
Participating in a Qualifying Work Program:
- This can include:
  - Job training programs
  - Workforce development programs
  - Volunteer work through a qualifying program
- The program must be supervised and designed to help you find employment.
- You must provide documentation of your participation in the program.
Combination of Work and Training:
- You can meet the work requirement by combining part-time work with participation in a qualifying work program, as long as the total hours per week equal at least 20.

Exemptions from the Work Requirement:

Certain individuals are exempt from the CalFresh work requirements. These exemptions include:

Medically Unfit to Work:
- Individuals who are physically or mentally unable to work due to a medical condition.
- You must provide medical documentation from a doctor or other qualified health professional.
Pregnant:
- Pregnant women are exempt from the work requirements.
- You must provide medical documentation of your pregnancy.
Caring for a Dependent Child Under Age 6:
- Individuals who are the primary caregiver for a child under age 6 are exempt.
Caring for an Incapacitated Person:
- Individuals who are caring for an incapacitated person are exempt.
- You must provide medical documentation of the incapacitated person’s condition.
Receiving Unemployment Benefits:
- Individuals who are receiving unemployment benefits are exempt.
Enrolled in School or Training:
- Individuals who are enrolled at least half-time in a recognized school or training program are exempt.
Living in a Waived Area:
- Some areas with high unemployment rates may have a waiver from the ABAWD work requirements.
- Check with your county social services agency to see if you live in a waived area.

Time Limits:

ABAWDs who do not meet the work requirements or qualify for an exemption are limited to receiving CalFresh benefits for only 3 months out of every 36-month period.
Once you have used up your 3 months of eligibility, you will not be eligible for CalFresh again until you meet the work requirements or qualify for an exemption.

Regaining Eligibility:

If you have used up your 3 months of eligibility, you can regain eligibility by:
- Meeting the work requirements (working at least 20 hours per week or participating in a qualifying work program).
- Qualifying for an exemption.

Reporting Changes:

You must report any changes in your work status or circumstances to your county social services agency.
Failure to report changes can result in termination of your benefits.

Additional Resources:

Contact your county social services agency for information about work programs and exemptions.
Visit the CDSS website for more information about CalFresh work requirements.

7. What Are My Rights And Responsibilities As A CalFresh Recipient In California?

As a CalFresh recipient in California, you have certain rights and responsibilities. Understanding these rights and responsibilities is essential for ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to and maintain your eligibility.

Your Rights:

Right to Apply:
- You have the right to apply for CalFresh benefits, regardless of your income or circumstances.
- The county social services agency must accept your application and process it in a timely manner.
Right to Non-Discrimination:
- You have the right to be treated with respect and dignity and to receive services without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or political beliefs.
Right to Confidentiality:
- Your personal information is confidential and protected by law.
- The county social services agency cannot share your information with unauthorized individuals or organizations.
Right to an Explanation:
- You have the right to receive a clear explanation of the CalFresh program rules and requirements.
- The county social services agency must provide you with information in a language you understand.
Right to a Fair Hearing:
- If you disagree with a decision made by the county social services agency, such as a denial of benefits or a reduction in benefits, you have the right to request a fair hearing.
- You must request a hearing within 90 days of the date of the notice of the decision.
Right to Representation:
- You have the right to be represented by an attorney or other advocate at your fair hearing.
Right to Access Your Records:
- You have the right to access your CalFresh case file and review the information it contains.

Your Responsibilities:

Provide Accurate Information:
- You are responsible for providing accurate and complete information on your CalFresh application and during your interviews.
- Providing false information can result in termination of your benefits and legal penalties.
Report Changes:
- You are responsible for reporting any changes in your household circumstances that may affect your eligibility or benefit amount.
- These changes include changes in income, household size, residency, and work status.
- You must report these changes within 10 days of the date they occur.
Cooperate with Reviews:
- You are required to cooperate with periodic reviews of your CalFresh case.
- This may include providing updated documentation and attending interviews.
Use Benefits Properly:
- You are responsible for using your CalFresh benefits only for eligible food items.
- Using your benefits to purchase ineligible items can result in termination of your benefits and legal penalties.
Protect Your EBT Card:
- You are responsible for protecting your EBT card and PIN.
- Do not share your PIN with anyone, and report a lost or stolen card immediately.
Comply with Work Requirements:
- If you are an ABAWD, you are responsible for meeting the CalFresh work requirements or qualifying for an exemption.
- Failure to comply with the work requirements can result in termination of your benefits.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Failure to comply with your responsibilities as a CalFresh recipient can result in:
- Termination of your benefits
- Repayment of overpaid benefits
- Legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment

How to Report Changes:

You can report changes to your county social services agency by:
- Phone
- Mail
- In-person visit
- Online portal (if available)

Additional Resources:

Contact your county social services agency for information about your rights and responsibilities as a CalFresh recipient.
Visit the CDSS website for more information about the CalFresh program.
Contact a legal aid organization for assistance with your CalFresh case.

8. What Happens After I Apply For CalFresh In California?

After you submit your CalFresh application in California, there are several steps in the process before you receive a decision about your eligibility and benefits. Understanding what to expect can help you navigate the process more effectively.

Application Processing:
- Once your application is received, the county social services agency will begin processing it.
- They will review your application for completeness and accuracy.
- They may contact you if they need additional information or documentation.
Verification:
- The county social services agency will verify the information you provided on your application.
- This may include contacting your employer, landlord, bank, or other sources.
- You may be asked to provide additional documentation to support your claims.
Interview:
- You will be scheduled for an interview with a caseworker.
- The interview can be conducted in person or over the phone.
- The caseworker will review your application, verify your information, and ask you questions about your household circumstances.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your income, expenses, resources, and work status.
Eligibility Determination:
- After the interview, the caseworker will determine your eligibility for CalFresh benefits.
- They will consider your household income, expenses, resources, and other factors.
- If you are eligible, they will calculate the amount of benefits you will receive each month.
Notice of Decision:
- You will receive a written notice of the decision about your CalFresh application.
- The notice will explain whether you have been approved or denied benefits.
- If you have been approved, the notice will state the amount of benefits you will receive each month and the date your benefits will be available.
- If you have been denied, the notice will explain the reasons for the denial and your right to appeal the decision.
EBT Card Issuance:
- If you are approved for CalFresh, you will receive an EBT card in the mail.
- Your monthly benefits will be deposited onto your EBT card according to a specific schedule.
- You can use your EBT card to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.
Ongoing Requirements:
- Once you are receiving CalFresh benefits, you must continue to meet certain requirements to maintain your eligibility.
- These requirements include reporting changes in your household circumstances, cooperating with reviews, and complying with work requirements (if applicable).
Reporting Changes:
- You must report any changes in your household circumstances to the county social services agency within 10 days of the date they occur.
- These changes include changes in income, household size, residency, and work status.
- Failure to report changes can result in termination of your benefits and legal penalties.
Periodic Reviews:
- Your CalFresh case will be reviewed periodically to ensure that you are still eligible for benefits.
- You will be asked to provide updated documentation and attend an interview.
- The review may result in an increase, decrease, or termination of your benefits.

Timeline:

The county social services agency has 30 days from the date you file your application to make a decision about your eligibility for CalFresh benefits.
If your application is delayed due to circumstances beyond the agency’s control, they must notify you of the delay and the reason for it.

What to Do If You Are Denied Benefits:

If you are denied CalFresh benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision.
You must request a hearing within 90 days of the date of the notice of the decision.
You can request a hearing by contacting your county social services agency or the California Department of Social Services.
At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case.
You may be represented by an attorney or other advocate at the hearing.

9. How Can I Appeal A CalFresh Denial Or Termination In California?

If your CalFresh application is denied or your benefits are terminated in California, you have the right to appeal the decision. Understanding the appeals process can help you protect your rights and potentially reinstate your benefits.

Grounds for Appeal:

You can appeal a CalFresh decision if you believe that the county social services agency:

Incorrectly denied your application
Incorrectly terminated your benefits
Calculated your benefits incorrectly
Discriminated against you
Violated your rights in any way

How to Request a Hearing:

Request in Writing:
- You must request a hearing in writing within 90 days of the date of the notice of the decision you are appealing.
- The written request should include:
  - Your name and address
  - Your CalFresh case number (if applicable)
  - A clear explanation of the decision you are appealing
  - The reasons why you believe the decision is incorrect
Submit Your Request:
- You can submit your written request to:
  - Your county social services agency
  - The California Department of Social Services (CDSS)

Hearing Process:

Scheduling:
- After you submit your request, the CDSS will schedule a hearing.
- You will receive a notice of the hearing date, time, and location.
- The hearing will typically be held within 45 days of the date you requested it.
Preparation:
- Before the hearing, gather any evidence that supports your case.
- This may include:
  - Documents
  - Witnesses
  - Photographs
- Review the notice of the decision you are appealing and identify the specific issues you want to address.
The Hearing:
- The hearing will be conducted by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
- You have the right to:
  - Present evidence
  - Call witnesses
  - Question witnesses
  - Be represented by an attorney or other advocate
- The county social services agency will also present evidence and witnesses.
- The ALJ will consider all of the evidence and testimony and make a decision based on the law.
Representation:
- You have the right to be represented by an attorney or other advocate at the hearing.
- If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be able to find free or low-cost legal assistance from a legal aid organization.

Hearing Decision:

The ALJ will issue a written decision within 45 days of the date of the hearing.
The decision will explain whether the ALJ has upheld, reversed, or modified the county social services agency’s decision.
If the ALJ reverses the decision, you may be entitled to receive back benefits.

Further Appeal:

If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you have the right to appeal it to the CDSS Director.
You must file your appeal within 30 days of the date of the ALJ’s decision.
The Director will review the ALJ’s decision and issue a final decision.

Tips for a Successful Appeal:

Act Quickly: Request a hearing as soon as possible after receiving the notice of the decision you are appealing.
Be Organized: Gather all of your evidence and organize it in a clear and logical manner.
Be Prepared: Review the notice of the decision you are appealing and identify the specific issues you want to address.
Be Respectful: Treat the ALJ and other participants with respect.
Be Clear: Explain your case clearly and concisely.
Get Help: Seek assistance from an attorney or other advocate.

10. Where Can I Find Additional Food Resources In California?

In addition to CalFresh, California offers numerous other food resources to help individuals and families meet their nutritional needs. These resources include food banks, meal programs, and other assistance programs.

Food Banks:

Description: Food banks are non-profit organizations that collect and distribute food to individuals and families in need.
Services: Food banks provide:
- Emergency food assistance
- Supplemental food programs
- Nutrition education
How to Find a Food Bank:
- Visit the California Association of Food Banks website (www.cafoodbanks.org).
- Search for