San Diego City Wire

San Diego County is experiencing record enrollment in the CalFresh food supplement program. As of June 1, 2024, more than 398,000 eligible people in the region are receiving CalFresh benefits, marking a 5.8% increase compared to the same month in 2023. Over the past year, more than 539,000 individuals have been enrolled at various times.

The record enrollment coincides with CalFresh Awareness Month. "We’ve seen this trend steadily increase as the need increased," said Rick Wanne, director of County Self-Sufficiency Services. "Our focus remains on outreach, enrollment and widely sharing information to connect individuals and families with the resources they are eligible to receive."

Feeding America reports that food insecurity affects about 10 percent of San Diego County residents. Over the past decade, CalFresh enrollment has risen by 59% as part of local efforts to address this issue.

In May, the County hosted events to disseminate information about CalFresh and provide free, in-person assistance for those eligible to enroll. CalFresh is California’s version of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It aims to enhance access to fresh and healthy food by providing financial supplements for meal purchases. Enrollees can use these benefits at most grocery stores and authorized retailers.

This program collaborates with other federal and local initiatives to meet nutritional needs comprehensively. One such initiative is SUN Bucks, which supports families with school-aged children during summer months.

CalFresh aligns with San Diego County’s Live Well San Diego commitment to fostering healthy, safe, and thriving communities.

CalFresh is not alone in its growth; as of June 1, 2024, CalWORKs has enrolled 51,348 individuals—a 10% increase from June 2023. CalWORKs provides temporary cash assistance to eligible families with children under age eighteen and helps parents achieve independence through workforce training.

For more information on how to apply for CalFresh benefits, visit the County's website.