CalFresh Food Assistance
What is this service? CalFresh is a federal nutrition program for low-income individuals and families that can help households buy healthy foods and seeds. Formerly known as the food stamp program and federally known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), this program provides a monthly nutrition benefit which is used via an Electronic Benefit Transaction (EBT)card similar to a debit card. The benefit is used to purchase groceries at markets, small retailers and even farmer’s markets.
What is the process?
Apply for CalFresh
You can apply for CalFresh in person Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at any County of San Luis Obispo Social Services office.
You can also apply online at GetCalFresh.org or BenefitsCal.
You may also download an application, complete and return mail, FAX or bring the application in to the local County Social Services office.
For Expedited Services and Minimum Requirements to apply for CalFresh, please click DSS CF 11 (English) / DSS CF 11 (Spanish).
Who is eligible?
Citizens of the United States or noncitizens who are legally residing in the U.S. are eligible to apply for CalFresh. A CalFresh Household may be a family, an individual, or anyone that purchases food and prepares meals together. Generally, you must meet certain residency and income requirements to qualify for the program.
Benefits are based on household size and income. Pre-screen to see if you may be eligible or apply at BenefitsCal. There are many myths about CalFresh eligibility. Please don't assume that you can't qualify: talk to us, or check out these Myths & Facts About CalFresh.
When and where is this service offered?
It is easy to apply. Apply in person Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at any County of San Luis Obispo office, online at BenefitsCal or you can download an application, fill it out and either mail, FAX or bring it into your local county office.
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
1086 East Grand Avenue
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Tel: (805) 474-2000
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
9630 El Camino Real
Atascadero, CA 93422
Tel: (805) 461-6000
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
600 Quintana Road
Morro Bay , CA 93442
Tel: (805) 772-6405
Fax: (805) 772-6409
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
681 West Tefft Street Suite 1
Nipomo, CA 93444
Tel: (805) 931-1800
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
406 Spring Street
Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tel: (805) 237-3110
Monday - Friday 8-4; 4-5 by appt only
3433 South Higuera
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tel: (805) 781-1600
FAQS
Yes, there are special rules and deductions for seniors (60 years or older) and disabled people.
You may be able to qualify for CalFresh if you are in college. See the CalFresh Student Flyer for details. Even if you do not qualify, others in your household may.
Yes. However, if you're able to work, you may be required to register for job training.
People who live together and purchase food and prepare meals together are grouped as a "household". Husbands and wives and their children under age 22 must be one household.
CalFresh is for eligible individuals & families including older adults.
All CalFresh applications must be processed as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) calendar days following the date the application was filed.
CalFresh Expedited Service means you can get your CalFresh in three (3) days if you are eligible by meeting special expedited criteria. Ask your worker if you are eligible for expedited services.
