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While $120 per child isn't as much as we'd hope, it's important to note this is a supplement to your regular CalFresh benefits, not a replacement. Combined with the Summer Food Service Program sites and potentially increased regular benefits (if you report rent increases), families should be able to piece together enough resources. It's definitely challenging though.
I'm also a working parent struggling with summer food costs! For the Summer Food Service Program, I've found that some sites partner with local organizations to offer delivery or extended pickup windows. Also, if you qualify for WIC, they sometimes have summer produce vouchers that can help stretch your food budget. It's worth calling 211 (dial 2-1-1) to ask about all available summer food programs in your specific area - they maintain a comprehensive database of local resources that might not be widely advertised.
Thank you for mentioning the 211 service! I had no idea they could help connect me with local summer food programs. I'm definitely going to call them to see what's available in my area. The delivery option for Summer Food Service Program sounds really helpful since transportation has been one of my biggest barriers. Do you know if the WIC produce vouchers are available even if you're not currently receiving WIC benefits, or would I need to apply for WIC first?
Just wanted to follow up - were you able to get through to the P-EBT customer service? Did they explain the difference in benefit amounts?
Yes! Finally got through yesterday using that Claimyr service someone mentioned above. Turns out there was actually an error with my kids' benefits. Even though they're eligible for the full amount, the system had them marked as only partially eligible. The representative filed a correction and said the additional benefits should be loaded within 10-15 business days. Thanks everyone for your help!
That's awesome that you got it resolved! It's so frustrating when there are system errors like that. Good to know the Claimyr service actually works - I might try that next time I need to call about benefits. Hope you get those additional funds loaded soon!
I'm so glad you were able to get this resolved! This is exactly why I always tell people to double-check their P-EBT amounts if something seems off. The system errors have been really common with this latest round of benefits. For anyone else dealing with similar issues, it's also worth noting that you can request a case review if the first representative you speak with can't help or seems unsure about your situation. Don't be afraid to ask for a supervisor if the amounts still don't make sense after the initial explanation. The P-EBT program has been through so many changes that even some customer service reps aren't fully up to speed on all the current guidelines.
Thank you all so much for the suggestions! I've made a list of all the places to call tomorrow morning. I'm still stressed but at least feel like I have some options to try now. I never realized there were so many different programs - the county worker made it sound like the $260 was all the help available to me.
That's unfortunately common - county eligibility workers are often overwhelmed and may only discuss the specific program you applied for rather than all available resources. For future reference, always ask about "all available emergency assistance programs" when facing housing instability. And remember to complete your SAR7 forms on time once you start receiving benefits, as missing paperwork deadlines is the #1 reason people lose assistance unexpectedly. Good luck with your calls tomorrow!
I'm new to this community but wanted to share something that might help. I volunteer with a local nonprofit and we've seen this exact situation a lot. One thing that's worked for some people is contacting your city council member's office directly - they often have discretionary funds or know about local programs that aren't widely advertised. For Lynwood, you can call (310) 603-0220 and explain you're facing eviction. They might be able to connect you with resources or even advocate with your landlord. Also, if you have any utility shut-off notices, sometimes addressing those first can free up money for rent. Don't give up - there are more options out there than what the county initially tells you!
Update: I called again today and spoke with someone different who confirmed the P-EBT 4.0 cards DO get reloaded quarterly! She said the next deposit will be February 11-15 (depending on your case number). She also apologized for the misinformation and said they just had a training about this very issue because too many parents were being told incorrect info. So if anyone else runs into this problem, DEFINITELY call back and speak to someone else!
So glad you called back and got the correct information! This is exactly why I always tell people in my neighborhood to never accept the first answer when it comes to benefits - especially with something as important as feeding your kids. The fact that they had to do a training specifically about this issue shows how widespread the misinformation problem is. It's really concerning that customer service reps are giving out wrong info about programs that families depend on. Thanks for updating us with the February 11-15 timeline - that's super helpful for other parents who might be wondering the same thing!
This whole thread has been so helpful! I'm new to the P-EBT program (just moved to California) and was totally confused about how it all works. Reading everyone's experiences makes me feel less alone in dealing with these frustrating customer service issues. It's ridiculous that families have to become experts in benefits programs just to get accurate information. Thank you Chloe for following up with the update - saves the rest of us from having to deal with misinformed reps!
NebulaNomad
Thanks for posting this confirmation! I've been wondering about this for weeks. My neighbor kept insisting that her friend's sister heard there would be more P-EBT payments coming, but I had a feeling the program was really done. It's frustrating that there wasn't better communication about the end date, but at least now I can stop checking my kids' cards every few days. Really appreciate everyone sharing info about the Summer EBT program too - that's the first I've heard about it and it sounds like it could be a real help during those long summer months when the kids are home all day.
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Ethan Taylor
•Right?? The rumors were driving me crazy too! I kept hearing different things from different people and it was so hard to know what was true. I'm glad the original poster took the time to actually call and get official confirmation. And yes, that Summer EBT info is really encouraging - I had no idea that was coming. It won't replace what we lost with P-EBT ending, but every little bit helps when you're feeding kids all summer long!
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Seraphina Delan
I'm so glad you posted this! I've been in the same boat - checking my kids' P-EBT cards obsessively and getting more frustrated each time there was nothing new. It's such a relief to finally have official confirmation that the program is actually over instead of wondering if I missed something or if there was a system glitch. The lack of clear communication from the state was really stressful for families who were depending on those benefits. At least now I can focus my energy on making sure I'm signed up for all the other programs that are still available, like making sure my CalFresh stays current and looking into that Summer EBT program that others mentioned. Thanks for doing the legwork to get a straight answer!
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