LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – May is “CalFresh Awareness Month,” a month of public outreach to increase awareness and enrollment in the CalFresh program.

CalFresh, known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP, provides monthly food benefits to individuals and families with low-income and provides economic benefits to communities.

EBT is the automated system that allows CalFresh recipients to use a card, much like a debit card, to access their food benefits for purchases at grocers.

In light of the state’s unprecedented response to COVID-19 and the expansive need that has resulted across the state, this years’ CalFresh Awareness Month will emphasize the critical role that CalFresh has and will continue to play in providing nutrition assistance to millions of California households, with low-income during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many individuals and families who need food are unaware that they may qualify for assistance. For instance, a family of four earning up to $2,790 gross per month may qualify for up to $646 in CalFresh benefits each month.

If you have lost your job, if your income has stopped, or you are still employed but have reduced hours, you may be eligible.

The application process is confidential. Get help putting food on the table. Go to www.getcalfresh.org to apply now.

Your county has 30 days to approve or deny your case. Some people with very low income can get expedited services, and their cases should be processed in three days, not counting the day of application and counting weekends as one day.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some special temporary rules exist:

· Your application interview may be skipped if your application is submitted complete, with all necessary verifications, including identity for the applicant and proof of income for all household members. You worker will tell you if you need to complete an interview to get benefits.

· CalFresh can be used online for EBT purchasing at Amazon and Walmart beginning April 28, 2020, excluding shipping. To learn more visit https://cdss.ca.gov/ebt-online .

To apply anytime visit www.getcalfresh.org, or call 707-995-4200, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for information on other ways to apply.