Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) for CalFresh Participants
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is an option that is only available for CalFresh eligible individuals who are considered elderly (age 60 years and up), disabled, or homeless. It is intended to help individuals who may struggle to prepare meals or who may not have the facilities to store or to prepare food safely. This is why California has chosen to allow specific CalFresh recipients the ability to purchase prepare and hot foods using their Golden Advantage EBT Card at approved restaurants. The Federal rules preventing the purchase of hot, prepared meals still apply to all other CalFresh participants.
Who is eligible?
CalFresh Eligible Participants who are elderly (age 60 years and older), disabled or homeless may take part in the San Luis Obispo Restaurant Meals Program.
When and where is this service offered?
This service is offered in participating San Luis Obispo County restaurants to CalFresh eligible individuals who are elderly, disabled or homeless who have chosen to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program.
For a list of participating restaurants in San Luis Obispo County: Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) Participating Restaurants (SLO County)
Look for Restaurants displaying this sign.
Restaurant Meals Program Logo (English) / Restaurant Meals Program Logo (Spanish)
FAQS
Yes, your sales receipt will show the cost of your meal and your CalFresh benefit balance.
No, you cannot use your CalFresh benefits to purchase alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or any non-food items.
No, an application is not required. However, you must be eligible for the CalFresh Program and be considered elderly, disabled or homeless.
If you are elderly (age 60 or over), disabled, or homeless, ask your worker. Your worker can code your Golden State Advantage (EBT) card so that it may be accepted as payment for meals at participating restaurants.
A restaurant that is participating in the program will have the RMP logo is displayed on its door or window.
Yes, if your EBT card has cash benefits, you can use the cash benefits to purchase meals but you must inform the cashier that you will use a mixed transaction (EBT CalFresh and EBT cash combined).
It is a wise idea to check your last receipt or call EBT Customer Service (1 (800) 328-9677 or TTY at 1 (800) 735-2929) to find out the current balance in your EBT CalFresh account before you order a meal. If you use the BenefitsCal Application, you will be able to check your benefits balance using the application.
Yes, The Department of Social Services maintains a list of the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) Participating Restaurants.
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows elderly, disabled and homeless CalFresh recipients the option to use their CalFresh benefits to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants by using their Golden State Advantage (EBT) card.
No, the participating restaurants are not allowed to charge tax or tip under the Restaurant Meals Program.
No, participating in the Restaurant Meals Program will not change your benefit amount.
