I didn't know about this program for months either. And when I did find out it was almost IMPOSSIBLE to use because the only farmers market near me with the match program was only open Tuesdays from 10-2pm when I'm at work! So frustrating. Like they design these programs to help but make them so hard to actually use.

One more important thing to note: The incentive program (whatever it's called in your area) has a monthly cap - usually between $25-$60 depending on your household size. So for example, if your household gets a maximum of $40 in matching funds per month, and you spend $50 on fruits and vegetables at a participating market, you'd only get $40 in additional benefits, not the full $50. The match resets at the beginning of each benefit month. Also, the match only applies to fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables without added sugar, fat, or salt - not other items you might buy with your regular CalFresh.

This is a common concern but nothing to worry about. Here's how the CalFresh EBT system works: 1. Your benefits are automatically loaded based on your case number's last digit (determines your issuance date) 2. PIN changes only affect how you access those funds, not the issuance 3. The security breach notification was important to address, so you did the right thing changing your PIN Your benefits should load on schedule tomorrow. If for any reason they don't, it would be unrelated to your PIN change. You can always check your balance and transaction history at www.ebt.ca.gov or through the ConnectEBT mobile app.

Wait, there was a security breach?? I didnt get any notice about this! Should I change my PIN too? How do I know if I was affected? Now I'm worried...

Have you been able to get through to customer service yet? If not, try calling exactly at 6:00 AM when the call volume is lowest. Also, since you have no food right now, call 211 and ask about emergency food assistance in your area. Many food banks can provide same-day emergency boxes, and some counties have agreements with certain grocery stores to provide emergency food vouchers in situations like this.

I finally got through! Used that Claimyr service someone mentioned above and it worked. They've canceled my card and are sending a new one that should arrive in 3-5 business days. They started an investigation but said it could take up to 15 business days to get my benefits back. I'm going to call 211 right now to find emergency food assistance for the meantime. Thanks everyone for your help!

To summarize the actual EBT card security best practices for everyone:\n\n1. Change your PIN occasionally (every 3-6 months)\n2. Check your balance after benefits post to confirm the correct amount\n3. Report any unauthorized transactions immediately (within 10 days gives you the best protection)\n4. Use your EBT card at major retailers when possible\n5. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN\n6. Never share your PIN with anyone\n7. Keep your EBT card in a safe place\n\nAnd most importantly, if you notice any unauthorized transactions, call the EBT Customer Service number on the back of your card right away to report it.

thx for this!! saving this comment for reference

Catholic Charities has emergency food assistance and they're usually open until 6pm. They don't ask about your religion or anything. Also check with Shepherd's Pantry in Glendora, they're open Thursday evenings until 7:30pm. Just wondering tho... if ur getting CalFresh on Saturday why don't u have food now? Did they reduce ur benefits or something? My caseworker told me benefits are supposed to last the whole month. Not judging! Just wondering if you should ask for an increase if it's not enough for your family size.

Just following up - were you able to find food assistance? If you're still struggling, you could try Union Station Homeless Services in Pasadena. They provide meals and I believe dinner is served around 6pm. You don't have to be homeless to access their services.