CALFRESH AWARENESS MONTH TO HIGHLIGHT IMPACTS OF H.R. 1

On May 1, the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) launched its annual CalFresh Awareness Month (CFAM) campaign to reduce food insecurity by promoting and increasing enrollment in CalFresh, the food assistance program that serves as a vital safety net for low-income individuals and households in Los Angeles County.

This year, outreach efforts will emphasize the importance of helping residents understand how U.S. House of Representatives 1 (H.R. 1) bill policy changes will impact eligibility, reporting, and renewal requirements for the CalFresh Program.

CalFresh is California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which DPSS administers in L.A. County. The program provides food assistance to those who meet the federal income requirement for eligibility.  Approximately 1.5 million L.A. County residents are currently enrolled in CalFresh. Additionally, more than 320,000 residents may be eligible for the program but are currently not receiving the benefit. 

May’s CFAM campaign will focus on providing clear and accurate information to help residents apply for and remain enrolled in CalFresh.  Staying informed and acting early can help customers keep their benefits.

The campaign will raise awareness of, and explain federal policy implemented on January 1 that affects CalFresh eligibility for certain non-citizens, specifically, refugees, asylees, parolees, and individuals with withheld deportation status. Individuals in these groups may no longer be eligible to receive CalFresh benefits.

DPSS will also highlight information on new CalFresh work requirements. Starting June 1, adults 18 to 64 years old, who are able to work and do not have a dependent under the age of 14 in their CalFresh household, will be required to complete at least 20 hours per week, or 80 hours per month of approved work or training activities, to maintain CalFresh benefits beyond three months within a 36-month period. 

For details on work requirement exemptions and approved work and training activities, visit the DPSS Keep Your Benefits webpage.

Residents are encouraged to support this year’s outreach efforts by following DPSS on social media and sharing information with individuals and families in their community who may benefit from CalFresh.

To learn how H.R. 1 policy changes may affect new CalFresh applicants, visit the DPSS website, subscribe to the Essential DPSS newsletter, or follow the department’s official social media channels.