CalFresh Benefits For Santa Cruz County Evacuees

Press release from County of Santa Cruz:

August 21, 2020

Families and individuals impacted by the Lighting Complex Fires may not realize they
qualify for CalFresh. CalFresh (formally known as food stamps) helps families and
individuals purchase food.

Evacuees may see if they qualify for CalFresh food assistance by applying online on a
mobile device or computer at www.getcalfresh.org or www.mybenefitscalwin.org.
Applications can also be taken by phone at 1-888-421-8080, between 8 a.m.– 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday. Paper applications may also be picked up and submitted at
18W. Beach St., Watsonville, 1020 Emeline Ave., Santa Cruz, or via fax to (831) 786-
7100. A process for securely submitting paper applications through the shelters is being
developed. Eligibility restrictions apply.

Eligible beneficiaries receive a CalFresh Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card which can
be used at most food retailers. Individuals who already receive CalFresh may have
benefits replaced if food purchased with CalFresh benefits is destroyed in a household
misfortune or disaster, such as the fire.

Please visit www.santacruzhumanservices.org for more information. Benefits offices are
open and here to serve our community.

To access more information about disaster resources including a complete list of availale
shelters, visit www.santacruzcounty.us/fireresources.aspx.

This press release was produced by County of Santa Cruz. The views expressed here are the author's own.