This is such a great thread to find! I'm currently waiting on my CalFresh decision (applied 2 weeks ago) and had no idea about WINS being separate. This totally explains why some people in other forums mention getting small amounts first before their main benefits. I'm definitely going to save this info so I don't panic if I see a $10 notification before hearing about my regular benefits. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's so helpful to hear from both recipients and an actual eligibility worker!

This thread is incredibly valuable! As someone who went through the exact same confusion about 6 months ago, I can totally relate to that panic of thinking $10 was going to be my entire food budget. The lack of clear communication from the system really does cause unnecessary stress during what's already a difficult time for most applicants. One thing I'd add for future readers - if you're in a similar situation and need food immediately while waiting for your EBT card, many food banks and pantries don't require you to already be receiving benefits. They can help bridge the gap while you're waiting for the system to catch up. Also, some grocery stores will let you check your EBT balance by phone even before your physical card arrives if you have the card number from your approval notice. It's so great to see this community helping each other navigate these confusing processes. Posts like this probably save dozens of people from the same worry and confusion!

As someone who's been helping families navigate CalFresh for years, I'm so glad this community came together to help you out! Just wanted to add one more tip for anyone reading - if you're ever in a similar emergency situation and need food immediately while waiting for your card, many grocery stores (especially larger chains like Safeway, Lucky, and FoodMaxx) have managers who can work with you if you explain your situation. They sometimes allow you to shop and pay later once you get your replacement card, especially if you're a regular customer. It's not guaranteed, but it's worth asking. Also, make sure to keep the receipt from today's county office visit - some counties require documentation if you need multiple replacements in a short time period. Great job advocating for yourself and your kids!

This entire thread is such a great example of community support in action! I'm relatively new to this group but have been so impressed by how quickly everyone jumped in to help with practical, actionable advice. As someone who just started receiving CalFresh benefits last month, I'm bookmarking this whole conversation for future reference. The tips about the ebtEDGE app, emergency food assistance at county offices, and even the grocery store manager approach are all things I never would have known otherwise. It's reassuring to know there are so many safety nets and resources available, and that there's a community here willing to share their knowledge and experiences. Thanks to everyone who contributed - this is invaluable information for anyone navigating the CalFresh system!

Also, make sure to report ALL your utility expenses when you update your housing information. If you pay for heat, electricity, water, garbage, or phone service separately from your rent, make sure to tell your worker about ALL of these costs. In many cases, you can get the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) added to your CalFresh calculation if you pay for heating or cooling, which can significantly increase your benefit amount.

Congrats on getting housed! That's amazing after 8 months on the streets. Just want to add that when you call to report the change, ask your worker about the Homeless Shelter Deduction if you qualify. Since you were recently homeless, you might be eligible for certain transitional benefits or expedited processing. Also, if you have any moving expenses or security deposit costs, keep those receipts - sometimes they can help with your case. The fact that you're working part-time actually helps show you're making efforts toward self-sufficiency, which workers generally view positively. Don't stress too much - the system is designed to help people transition from homelessness to stable housing, not penalize them for it!

Another thing that might help - if your sister's son has any after school activities or sports, check if the school district has a "supper program" or evening meal service. Some California districts expanded their meal programs to include dinner for kids who stay late for activities or tutoring. It's usually free just like breakfast and lunch now. Also, during school breaks (winter, spring break), some districts continue offering grab-and-go meals even when regular classes aren't in session. Worth calling the school's main office or nutrition services to ask what's available - these programs aren't always well advertised but can really help bridge those gaps when kids are home more and eating more meals at home.

I'm new to this community but wanted to share something that helped us when we were in a similar situation. Besides all the great advice already given, I'd suggest your sister also check if her local library has any food assistance programs. Our library partners with local food banks to distribute boxes of groceries once a month - no questions asked, just show up. They also sometimes have cooking classes that include take-home ingredients. Libraries are becoming real community hubs for all kinds of support services, not just books! Also, if she's on social media, many neighborhoods have "Buy Nothing" groups where people share extra groceries, especially bulk items from Costco that families can't use up. It's a great way to get fresh produce and pantry staples without any paperwork or waiting in lines.

Great to hear you got through and they're processing your emergency increase! That's exactly what should happen. Just a heads up - make sure to keep documenting everything during your job search. Save all your job applications, rejection letters, interview confirmations, etc. If your benefits ever get reviewed, having that paper trail showing you're actively looking for work can be really helpful. Also, once you do find a new job, report your start date and expected income right away to avoid any overpayment issues. Good luck with the job hunt!

Also wanted to mention - if you're in a county that has CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), you might be eligible for that too once your benefits increase. It lets you use your EBT card at participating restaurants like Subway, Papa Murphy's, and some local places. Really helpful when you're stressed about job hunting and don't have energy to cook. Not all counties have it, but worth checking if yours does. You qualify if you're homeless, elderly, or disabled, but some counties have expanded eligibility. Check with your worker when you talk to them next!