As the U.S. Department of Agriculture ordered states to ‘undo’ efforts to disburse full SNAP benefits for November, many people in San Diego County already started spending those benefits this weekend.
The latest guidance from the Trump administration comes after the Supreme Court temporarily blocked a judge’s decision that ordered immediate payouts.
Alejandra Ruelas sells homemade bread and pastries every Sunday at the Chula Vista Farmers’ Market. All of it baked by her husband in their home kitchen.
“It’s like a little piece of family when you share your bread or any pastry,” she said. The couple’s business is Mi Pan Bakery, one of about 90 vendors who sell food and freshness weekly in downtown Chula Vista. Often their customers are families who need it most. “EBT recipients definitely support small businesses,” Ruelas added.
The Chula Vista Sunday sale location is one of five farmers markets around San Diego County during the week that accept SNAP benefits to purchase food. They also offer a “market match” program which provides EBT card users with an additional $15 in credit to buy fresh fruits and vegetables along with their regular benefits.
Tristan McCall is the onsite market manager who processes card deductions and then gives a shopper a dollar-for-dollar coupon to use with the vendors.
She also tries to explain away any stigma a family might feel about using the federally-funded benefits.
“(I tell them), you’re trying to feed your family. You’re buying healthy products to feed your family. Don’t …don’t be embarrassed. We want food access for you,” McCall said.
The Sunday Hillcrest Farmers Market does not accept EBT or offer a “market match” program.
But, with 175 vendors along University Avenue every week, there is much more selection and opportunity to buy fresh food at lower prices. The Valley Center Growers company sells freshly squeezed fruit juices and vegetables.
Elvira Aguilar and a co-worker come from Valley Center to sell every Sunday. She told NBC 7 through an English translation, “Right now with the economy, there are many people not making much money. This helps make food more accessible to them.”
The County of San Diego has a full listing of all certified farmer’s markets and their payment options here.
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