Residents in Los Angeles can buy hot foods with CalFresh benefits until February 8. This extension helps those who may not have cooking facilities or food storage due to recent fires. If you lost food purchased with CalFresh because of the fires, you can ask for replacements until February 5.
To request replacements, contact the Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services at 866-613-3777. They’re available from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Additionally, about 25,000 food boxes are being sent to the affected areas with support from $1 million in state emergency funding. So far, 4,200 boxes have reached the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
Food distributions will continue throughout the week. If you’re looking for food in your area, you can find distribution sites here.
California plans to seek federal approval for Disaster CalFresh benefits for those affected by the fires, aiding recovery efforts.
How to Apply for CalFresh
To apply for CalFresh, you can go to BenefitsCal.com or contact your local social services agency. CalFresh, known federally as SNAP, provides monthly benefits to help low-income households buy food. This program aims to support the nutritional needs of qualified individuals.
California is dedicated to reducing food insecurity, especially during disasters. “These emergency food benefits will help ensure that people have access to food during challenging times,” stated Kim Johnson, the Secretary of California Health and Human Services Agency.
Disaster Assistance
If you were affected by wildfires in Los Angeles County, assistance is available:
- Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call 800-621-3362.
- Use the FEMA smartphone app.
- Services are offered in over 40 languages.
- If using a relay service, make sure to provide the FEMA representative with your service number.
For more information, resources are available online.
