CalFresh: What you need to know
CalFresh is the California version of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). This program provides aid to California residents in the form of EBT cards, which can be used to purchase food, plants and seeds. Not to be confused with Cal Poly Humboldt’s OhSnap, SNAP is the federal food benefits program commonly known as food stamps. Here are a few things you should know about the program.
Who is eligible for CalFresh?
To qualify you must be a full-time student, working more than 20 hours per week, receive work-study or have a dependent. Other academic programs on campus allow students to qualify, so it’s important to include those programs in your application. For a comprehensive list of qualifications visit calfresh.guide/special-rules-for-students.
“One of the things that’s really important for students to know is they should apply for CalFresh. It’s basically free money,” said Mira Friedman, the Lead for Health Education and Clinic Support Services at CPH.
How can students apply for CalFresh?
There are multiple ways to apply for CalFresh, including online and paper applications. Benefitscal.com is a hub for aid applications, and the CalFresh application takes around 30 minutes to complete. Students can also apply at OhSnap, either by using the iPads provided or getting a paper application. It’s located at Recreation and Wellness Center Room 122. OhSnap student staff are also available to help you with your application.
Where can students get food if they don’t have CalFresh?
Meal swipes for the J dining hall are another way for students to get food on campus. Students can make an appointment with the basic needs office or visit the Humboldt CARE website to apply for meal swipes. OhSnap also provides food to students either during open hours or by appointment.
“OhSnap food program is an amazing program but it’s meant to be supplemental,” Friedman said.
Other local food pantries open for people in need include the Arcata House Partnership Pantry, The Center in McKinleyville and Eureka Food for People.
Where can EBT be used?
While CPH was one of the first campuses to work with EBT, it is no longer accepted as a form of payment.
“As for EBT, the campus is continuing to work with our merchant processors to approve setting up EBT acceptance for our on campus stores, College Creek Marketplace and The Giant’s Cupboard. We recognize the strong need for our students and are working towards implementation,” said Aileen Yoo, Director of News & Information at the University.
EBT can be used off-campus at most grocery and convenience stores for food items. Notably, EBT can not be used for prepared hot foods or alcohol; it is intended to be used for ingredients to grow and prepare food at home.
