The CalFresh Program, formerly known as Food Stamps and federally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), can add to your food budget to put healthy and nutritious food on the table. The program issues monthly electronic benefits that can be used to buy most foods at many markets and food stores. The amount of the benefit is based on the size of your household, your income, and your housing expenses. CalFresh benefits come on a plastic card, called the Golden State Advantage Card, which you can use just like a bank card at most food stores.
Get CalFresh
Apply for CalFresh
You can apply for CalFresh by booking an appointment online using our Appointment Plus System or by calling 2-1-1 to make an appointment by phone. The county has up to 30 days to approve or deny your application.
Buy Food or Grow Your Own Garden
You can buy food as well as plants and seeds to grow food. You will not be charged sales tax on items you buy with CalFresh. You cannot buy pet food, vitamins, medicines, alcohol, tobacco, paper products, fast food or food that will be eaten in the store.
Restaurant Meals Program
If the county you live in participates in the Restaurant Meals Program and you are elderly (60 or older), disabled and/or homeless, you can purchase food at approved participating restaurants.
