Thousands in Santa Barbara County are facing changes to their food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as CalFresh in California. Starting next Monday, new eligibility rules are taking effect, thanks to adjustments made by the Trump administration.
One major shift is the work requirement. People aged 18-24 who previously had exemptions, like veterans and those who have aged out of foster care, will now need to work or volunteer 80 hours monthly to receive benefits. The exemption age for seniors has also been raised from 55 to 65.
These policy changes will affect many. Estimates suggest about 5,400 individuals in Santa Barbara could lose access to these crucial benefits in the coming year. As of March, over 55,000 locals were receiving assistance, with nearly 40% of beneficiaries being children. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, statewide about one in eight participants might be cut from the program.
Despite proposed adjustments, food insecurity remains a pressing issue. A recent survey from the Urban Institute showed that one in four adults in California grapple with not having enough food. Furthermore, the number of people in SNAP is dropping statewide. From February 2025 to 2026, California saw a decrease of over 6%, but experts believe this isn’t due to reduced need.
Compounding the problem, refugees and asylum seekers will lose SNAP eligibility unless they hold a green card. This means they could wait over a year to apply and even longer for approvals, leaving them vulnerable during this time.
In response, the Foodbank of Santa Barbara is prepping for an uptick in need, budgeting $2.5 million for food purchases. They’re also focusing on local sourcing through their Farm-to-Foodbank program, which supports local farmers. The Foodbank has committed to helping anyone affected by these changes, stating they will do everything to prevent hunger in the county.
Access to food assistance is crucial for many, especially as economic pressures continue to rise. As policies change and eligibility tightens, local organizations like the Foodbank play an essential role in providing support to those in need. With ongoing discussions around food security, it’s vital for communities to rally together and ensure everyone has access to the food they need.
For more insights into food assistance programs and their impact, check out resources from the California Association of Food Banks.
