What other food assistance programs exist besides CalFresh in California?

Yes! There are several other food assistance programs you might qualify for even if you're over the CalFresh income limits. Here are a few to look into: 1. WIC (Women, Infants & Children) - If you have kids under 5 or are pregnant, WIC has higher income limits than CalFresh 2. School meal programs - Your kids might qualify for free or reduced lunch even if you're over CalFresh limits 3. Food banks and pantries - Many don't have income requirements at all 4. EFAP (Emergency Food Assistance Program) - Different eligibility than CalFresh 5. P-EBT for school-age children if your school participates Definitely check out WIC first if you have younger kids!

my neighbor was in the same boat and she gets food from our local church pantry. they give out pretty good stuff on wednesdays. no income check just show up. also check 211 they can tell u all the food places near your zip code.

The income limits for WIC are 185% of federal poverty level, which is quite a bit higher than CalFresh (which is 130% for gross income). For a family of 5 in 2025, WIC's monthly income limit is around $5,450 while CalFresh is about $3,850. WIC applications are through a different system - you need to contact your local WIC office, not the CalFresh county office. You can find your local WIC office at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CFH/DWICSN/Pages/HowCanIGetWIC.aspx Also look into the School Meals program. Even if your income is over the reduced meals threshold, some districts have universal free meals through Community Eligibility Provision.

Yes, California implemented Universal Meals in 2022, providing free breakfast and lunch to all public school students regardless of income. This is different from the federal program and applies to all CA public schools.

did your calfresh worker tell you about the expedited services review? sometimes if you ask for that they might be able to help you faster if you're in an emergency situation. not sure if that helps since you were already denied tho....

I went through this exact same situation last year. One thing that really helped me was calling 211 which connected me to all the local food resources. What's frustrating about CalFresh is getting through to talk to someone when you have questions about reapplying or appealing. I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you skip the phone wait times when calling county offices. It cost a little bit but saved me HOURS of waiting on hold. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 Also, if your income is just slightly over the limit, you should ask about deductions! They can deduct certain expenses like childcare and some housing costs which might actually put you under the limit for CalFresh eligibility.

YES! Absolutely appeal with your childcare expenses! CalFresh allows deductions for: 1. Dependent care costs (like your afterschool care) 2. Medical expenses for elderly/disabled household members 3. Shelter costs that exceed 50% of your income after other deductions 4. Child support payments With $950/month in childcare expenses, you could definitely qualify even with slightly higher income. When you appeal, bring documentation of those childcare expenses. You typically have 90 days from denial to file an appeal.

DONT WASTE UR TIME WITH CALFRESH!!!! its all a scam anyway. I was getting $375/month then they cut me to $17!!!! SEVENTEEN DOLLARS what am i supposed to do with that???? the whole system is rigged against working people.

hey just checking back...did u try calling 211? curious if they were helpful for ur situation

So glad to hear you got help from 211 and the food pantry! That's awesome that you got fresh vegetables and protein too. Just wanted to add one more resource - California has a program called CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) for certain eligible households that lets you use benefits at participating restaurants. It's mainly for elderly, disabled, or homeless individuals, but worth mentioning in case anyone else reading this might qualify. Also, when you appeal your CalFresh denial with those childcare expenses, make sure to keep copies of everything you submit. The appeal process can take 30-90 days but they have to give you a fair hearing. Good luck with the WIC application too - having both programs would really help stretch your food budget!

Another resource to check out is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) if you have anyone in your household who's 60 or older. It provides monthly food boxes with things like cereal, peanut butter, pasta, and canned goods. The income limits are usually higher than CalFresh. Also, many community colleges have food pantries that are open to the public, not just students. And if you're near any Sikh temples (gurdwaras), they often serve free meals to anyone who needs them, no questions asked. I've heard the food is really good too! One more tip - some grocery stores like Grocery Outlet and WinCo have special discount programs for families. It's worth asking at customer service if they have any programs you might qualify for.

I just want to say how heartwarming it is to see this community come together to help Alexander and share so many resources! As someone who works with families navigating food insecurity, I'd like to add a few more options: 1. **CalFresh for Students** - If you're taking any college classes (even part-time), there are special student eligibility rules that might help you qualify despite higher income. 2. **Summer Food Service Program** - When school's out, many parks and community centers serve free meals to kids under 18, no income requirements. 3. **Double Up Food Bucks** - At participating farmers markets, your CalFresh benefits are matched dollar-for-dollar for fresh produce (once you get approved). 4. **Local mutual aid groups** - Search Facebook for "[your city] mutual aid" or "buy nothing" groups. These grassroots networks often coordinate food sharing. Also, Alexander, when you do your CalFresh appeal, consider asking for an "adequate notice" review if they didn't properly explain all the deductions you're entitled to. The system is complex but you have rights as an applicant! Keep us posted on how the WIC application goes. You've got a whole community rooting for you! 💪

Just wanted to add another resource that helped my family when we were in a similar situation - the California Food Policy Advocates website has a really comprehensive guide to all food assistance programs in CA with income eligibility charts. It's at cfpa.net and they have a "Food Programs Guide" that breaks down exactly what each program offers and how to apply. Also, if you're comfortable with it, consider reaching out to local faith communities even if you're not a member. Many churches, mosques, and synagogues run food pantries or have emergency assistance funds specifically for families with children. I was hesitant at first but everyone I encountered was just focused on helping, no questions about beliefs or anything like that. One last tip - if you end up at food banks regularly, ask if they have any "client choice" pantries where you can pick your own items rather than getting a pre-packed box. It helps ensure you get foods your kids will actually eat and any dietary restrictions are accommodated. Rooting for you and your family! The fact that you're working so hard to find resources shows what a dedicated parent you are. 🙏