HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov
Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach is sharing important information regarding the ongoing federal government shutdown and its impact on CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Due to the shutdown, approximately 1.5 million Los Angeles County residents who rely on CalFresh to help pay for groceries will experience delays in receiving their November benefits. In Long Beach, more than 93,000 children and adults depend on this critical program for access to food.
CalFresh is administered by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and managed locally by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS). The City of Long Beach does not administer CalFresh. However, the City remains committed to keeping the community informed and connected to available local food resources.
The State will notify CalFresh recipients about these temporary delays. These notices do not indicate a loss of eligibility or termination of benefits. Recipients should continue to submit required reporting forms, such as the semi-annual report (SAR 7) and renewal paperwork, to help prevent further delays once benefits resume.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that no new CalFresh benefits will be issued on Nov. 1, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Benefits already issued prior to Nov. 1 will remain active. Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards will continue to work, and funds do not need to be spent by Nov. 1.
Residents in need of immediate food assistance are encouraged to explore the following local and regional resources:
- Health Active Long Beach Webpage – A City-managed webpage offering links to local and regional food assistance programs.
- WIC: Women, Infants & Children – WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and referrals for qualifying families.
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank – Find the nearest food pantry at LAFoodBank.org/FindFood or call 2-1-1.
- Community food distribution – Sponsored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, nonprofit Food Finders will host food distributions at Admiral Kidd Park, (2125 Santa Fe Ave., 90810) at 9 a.m. on Saturdays, Nov. 1, Nov. 8, Nov. 15 and Nov. 22.
- Food Oasis – Search for free meal and pantry sites.
Community members who are able are encouraged to support local food banks to help neighbors facing temporary food insecurity.
The City of Long Beach will continue working closely with Los Angeles County DPSS to share verified information and updates to community members and partners as they become available. People are encouraged to follow @LBHealthDept on Facebook, X and Instagram to stay updated.
For more detailed answers to common questions about CalFresh benefits during the federal government shutdown, visit the CDSS’ Frequently Asked Questions.
Media inquiries may be directed to the Health Department’s Public Affairs Office at HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov