Navigating CalFresh, California’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, can be tricky. Long application processes and confusing income rules often discourage students from accessing these vital benefits. Yasmeen Washington, a law student and chair of the Bruin Food Access Project, knows this struggle well. Her initiative, which pairs UCLA law students with the nonprofit Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, aims to simplify the process. They give legal advice to help students qualify for CalFresh and respond to denials or low benefit amounts.
Washington shares, “I’ve seen many students express their relief about receiving these benefits, especially during finals. They don’t have to stress about where their next meal will come from.”
However, challenges persist. In late 2023, CalFresh benefits faced delays because of a federal government shutdown that lasted over a month, the longest in U.S. history. This resulted from a shift in policy under the Trump administration, which halted the use of contingency funds for SNAP benefits.
The situation worsened with the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” in July 2025. This legislation tightened SNAP work requirements and cut $187 billion from the program over the next decade, reported by the Congressional Budget Office. Washington noted that these delays and funding cuts heightened anxiety for students already struggling to access food. “The harm is done. The stress of finding food weighs heavily,” she explained.
Zachary Genduso, an attorney with LAFLA, points out that many students encounter difficulties when their income fluctuates. He emphasizes that students in certain categories—like parents or those in work-study programs—are eligible for CalFresh. In fact, about 40% of college students qualify, according to GetCalFresh.org.
“The rules are complex, and there are exceptions everywhere,” Genduso said. Complications also arise when students receive unearned income, like family gifts. If not reported, this can lead to overpayment of benefits, creating future liabilities for the student.
To tackle these issues, LAFLA attorneys help resolve disputes with the LA County Department of Public Social Services. Whether through informal notifications or formal appeals, they work hard to ensure students get the support they need.
The Bruin Food Access Project operates on a referral basis, connecting students to legal advice through UCLA’s Basic Needs initiative. Around 20 volunteer students assist Genduso by preparing documents and gathering relevant information before client meetings.
Lopez, another attorney involved, states, “Even with their busy schedules, students prioritize seeking help. This shows how important these issues are to them.”
Access to food is crucial for academic success. Washington highlights how it allows students to focus on their studies and extracurricular activities. “I often hear the stress in their voices about food insecurity. Helping them feels rewarding,” she says.
As food insecurity continues to impact many, resources like the Bruin Food Access Project provide a lifeline. Understanding eligibility and navigating the application process can make all the difference in helping students thrive.
