Update - October 24, 2025
Governor Newsom has announced $80 million in state funding to release to the foodbanks. Sacramento is earmarked for $2.9 million in direct assistance to foodbanks. However, the County disperses more than $50 million a month in CalFresh benefits. The Governor is also deploying the National Guard to assist food banks in food distribution.
At this time, the county is working closely with local food banks to understand their current needs. Before donating anything to your local foodbank, please call them and ask what they need to maximize the usefulness of your donation.
To find the foodbank closet to you, please visit the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services online navigator tool.
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Update - October 23, 2025
As of today, the federal government remains shut down, and no new funding has been authorized for CalFresh benefits beyond October 31, 2025. Unless federal funding is restored, CalFresh benefits for November will not be issued, and households will not receive new funds on their EBT cards.
What This Means for Clients
- October benefits have already been issued and are available for use as normal.
- No new CalFresh benefits are expected to be loaded to EBT cards in November unless federal funding resumes.
- EBT cards will continue to function for any remaining balances, but no new benefits will be added until the federal government reopens.
- There are approximately 270,000 people enrolled in CalFresh in Sacramento County
The Department of Human Assistance (DHA) is alerting all CalFresh recipients through multiple communication channels, including text, social media, and lobby messaging.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit www.cafoodbanks.org/find-food/ to locate food resources in their community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are November CalFresh benefits delayed?
The federal government is shut down. Until the government reopens, millions of Californians receiving CalFresh benefits may have their benefits impacted. The federal government has not provided additional funding for these benefits. Funding is available for benefits for the month of October. However, if the federal government shutdown continues past October 23 and the federal government does not provide additional funding, CalFresh benefits will be delayed in November.
Will I be able to use the CalFresh benefits on my EBT card in November 2025?
As of now, you will be able to use your EBT card with your existing benefits as usual through the federal government shutdown. We will share more information if anything changes.
What if I am due to complete my SAR 7 or renew my CalFresh benefits in November and I haven't sent in my completed forms yet?
Please continue to submit all required forms and your recertification as normal. However, there may be processing delays due to the continued federal government shutdown.
Can I still apply for new CalFresh benefits in November?
Yes. You can apply for CalFresh benefits online at www.benefitscal.com, by phone at 1-877-847-3663, or in person at your local county social services office. For more information, visit www.benefitscal.com. Because of the federal government's shutdown and its failure to provide additional funding, your benefits may be delayed.
Are county social services offices still open?
Yes. County social services office are still open. You can go in person, or you can call 1-877-847-3663. For a list of in-person locations, visit ha.saccounty.gov.
Where can I find additional food resources in my community?
You can get free food from your local food bank. There are food banks across California that give free food to people in their communities. To find a food bank, visit www.cafoodbanks.org/find-food/.
Can I request a state hearing if my CalFresh benefits are delayed due to the federal government shutdown?
Judges are unable to start or restart November benefits at this time because the federal government shutdown has delayed funding. Therefore, requesting a hearing will not restart CalFresh benefits.
Are CalWORKs benefits also at risk?
Currently, the state is expected to be able to fund CalWORKs benefits for November 2025. However, a continued federal government shutdown will put December 2025 CalWORKs benefits at risk.
How can I help?
Consider volunteering or donating to your local food bank. Visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org/find-food to find one near you.
