Palm Springs Alerts Residents to CalFresh Benefit Delays During Federal Shutdown

Starting November 1st, millions of Americans may not receive food stamps through the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to more than 42 million low-income Americans each month. Despite President Trump telling reporters Friday that "everybody is going to be in good shape," the U.S. Department of Agriculture has stated it will not use its $6 billion contingency fund to cover food stamp benefits next month during the government shutdown.

Several state governors have criticized the federal response. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said, "USDA during this shutdown has contingency funds that they could release just like us. They are choosing not to." Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced his state would support food pantries as best it can, while placing responsibility on the federal government to resolve the issue. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Monday that Senate Republicans will work to ensure SNAP payments continue, but insisted the best solution is ending the shutdown.

Local Impact in Riverside County

The City of Palm Springs has notified residents that CalFresh benefit payments—California's version of SNAP—will be delayed starting in November until the shutdown ends.

The announcement references an October 23rd post from the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services, which stated that as the shutdown enters its fourth week, CalFresh payments will be postponed.

What Recipients Can Do

CalFresh recipients can still:

• Use existing benefits

• Submit required paperwork to keep cases active for when benefits resume

• Apply for or manage benefits at BenefitsCal.com or call 1-877-410-8827
  

Other Programs and Resources

MediCal and CalWORKs programs are not experiencing disruptions at this time, though that could change if the shutdown continues.

Palm Springs directed residents needing immediate food assistance to FIND Food Bank, which operates at multiple locations throughout the Coachella Valley. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for information about local food pantries and assistance programs.