CalFresh Eligibility Changes Impact Non-Citizens in Riverside County, More Updates Coming June 1

New changes to CalFresh eligibility are now in effect, potentially impacting thousands of non-citizens across Riverside County.

According to county officials, certain groups—including refugees, parolees, conditional entrants, and trafficking victims—may lose access to food assistance under the updated guidelines.

The Riverside County Department of Public Social Services says eligibility could also change for individuals whose immigration status shifts to legal permanent resident, depending on whether they meet all other program requirements.

For those affected, local resources are available. Residents can seek assistance through community food banks, the 211 resource line, or the Women, Infants and Children program, also known as WIC.

Officials say this is just the beginning of a broader set of updates. Additional changes are expected to take effect June 1, including new work requirements and reduced exemptions for certain groups.

County leaders are encouraging anyone who may be impacted to review their eligibility status and explore available support services as the changes roll out.

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