SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — As the government marks 21 days into its shutdown, officials are stating that CalFresh and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may be delayed for millions of Californians.
While many CalFresh benefits were deposited for October, November deposits will be delayed if the shutdown isn’t lifted by Thursday. With Congress still seemingly at an impasse, San Diego County, along with state guidance, is advising people to prepare for no benefits beginning next month.
“Millions of Californians receiving benefits from State programs may be impacted,” the Department of Social Services website states.
More than five million Californians are recipients of CalFresh, with nearly 395,000 recipients in San Diego County. The California Department of Social Services notified counties across California on Tuesday to prepare for the cuts.
Governor Gavin Newsom shared in a statement that this will especially impact individuals with holidays like Thanksgiving right around the corner.
“Trump’s failure to open the federal government is now endangering people’s lives and making basic needs like food more expensive — just as the holidays arrive,” Newsom said.
Newsom added that 63% of SNAP participants are elderly or children.
“While the GOP tries to tally political wins in Washington, hardworking Americans are facing bare cupboards and counting what’s left to eat,” First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom said.
President Donald Trump has stated he is willing to meet with Democratic leadership, only if the government reopens.
“He is ready and willing for the three of us to meet with Leader Jeffries and Senator Schumer as soon as Schumer reopens the government,” Speaker of the House Mike Johnson said on social media.
The Governor’s Office shared that the Federal Government is directing states to hold November benefit data that assists in CalFresh funds being allocated. People newly enrolled in benefits may be affected in the last half of October.
“The County will share updated information about CalFresh benefits as soon as it becomes available,” San Diego County shared in a statement.
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