Federal shutdown hits CA food banks. So Newsom's sending in the troops.

"After the California Department of Social Services notified counties across the state on Monday that the government shutdown could stall the state's food stamps program CalFresh, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Wednesday he will set aside $80 million in emergency funding to support food banks and deploy the California National Guard to assist in food distribution. "Trump's failure isn't abstract - it's literally taking food out of people's mouths," wrote Governor Newsom in a press release on the ongoing shutdown's impact on food assistance."

"CalFresh, or SNAP, provides over $1.1 billion in food benefits state-wide each month. About 5.5 million Californians rely on the program, including over 100,000 San Franciscans, a number that has grown in recent years due to post-pandemic impacts and an expansion of eligibility. CalFresh benefits, which provide financial assistance with food purchases for low-income Californians, may not be available as soon as November. The San Francisco Human Services Agency this week warned users that the benefits could run out by Nov. 1."

"Other benefits, including Medi-Cal and Social Security, are not expected to be impacted at this time. Food banks across San Francisco will likely be overwhelmed with those in need of help putting food on their table in the coming weeks. Emergency funding from the state and extra hands are intended to help hold over local food pantries during the month, and as the holiday season approaches."

California alerted counties that the federal government shutdown could stall the CalFresh food stamps program, prompting the state to set aside $80 million and deploy the California National Guard to assist food distribution. CalFresh provides over $1.1 billion in monthly benefits to about 5.5 million Californians, including over 100,000 in San Francisco, and expanded eligibility has increased enrollment. Local agencies warned that benefits could run out for some recipients by November 1. Medi-Cal and Social Security are not expected to be affected. State funding and Guard personnel aim to support food banks and pantries during increased demand and the holiday season.

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