Food Assistance

According to the California Association of Food Banks, California produces nearly half of the nation's fruits and vegetables, yet 1 in 4 Californians - that's about 10 million - currently struggle with food insecurity. 'Food insecurity' is the occasional or constant lack of access to the food one needs for a healthy, active life.

Food insecurity has serious impacts on an individual's well-being, which may result in poor school attendance and performance, lowered workplace productivity, and physical and mental health problems. Individuals struggling with food insecurity have to make tough decisions that no one should face. No family should have to decide between buying groceries or paying rent, no senior should have to choose between food and medicine, and no parent should have to skip a meal in order for their children to eat.

Available Programs

• CalFresh
• Food Distribution
• Food Pantries

CalFresh

CalFresh also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), historically and commonly known as the Food Stamp Program, is designed to help meet the nutritional needs of people with low income. It supports healthy living which is important to agriculture in California and it is better viewed as a health and nutrition program. CalFresh may not be used for items such as liquor, cigarettes, household supplies, or hot foods. The CalFresh allotments are determined on a semi-annual basis utilizing income information received from the family.

While Food Stamps were once provided in coupon form, the state began delivering nutrition assistance benefits via EBT Cards (similar to ATM cards) in 1996. The EBT Program was implemented in Lake County on July 1, 2004. The cards are accepted at grocers and retailers throughout the State and across the country. The account balance is automatically adjusted according to purchases. The EBT system increases security and reliability of benefits, modernizes benefit redemption and reduces stigma attached to purchases made with paper coupons. 

There are several different financial assistance programs available to those who qualify. Our staff are happy to walk you through the options available. You can reach an Eligibility Specialist by calling 707-995-4200. For more information on ways to apply, view the Eligibility heading on this page.

To check your balance, visit the EBT Cardholder Portal.

CalFresh Emergency Allotments which provided a minimum of $95 for CalFresh Households are ending.  

Beginning April 2023, your CalFresh benefits will return to the regular amount.  Your regular amount is the amount put onto your EBT card between the 1^st and 10^th of each month.  Your regular benefits are based on your circumstances, including your household size, income, and deductions.

This is a mass change that affects all CalFresh households in California due to Federal regulations and is not considered a reduction to the approved regular CalFresh benefit amount.  A state hearing judge cannot order payment of Emergency Allotments after they have stopped.

Questions? Call 1-888-445-1955 or visit Calfresh COVID-19 Web Page

Los Beneficios de emergencia de CalFresh que proporcionaron un mínimo de $ 95 se van a terminar.  

A partir de abril de 2023, sus beneficios de CalFresh volverán a la cantidad normal. Su beneficio regular es el monto que se deposita en su tarjeta EBT entre el 1 y el 10 de cada mes. Sus beneficios regulares se basan en sus circunstancias, incluido el tamaño de su hogar, los ingresos y las deducciones.

Este es un cambio que afecta todos los hogares de CalFresh en California debido a las regulaciones federales y no se considera una reducción del monto del beneficio de CalFresh regular aprobado. Un juez de audiencia no puede ordenar un pago de beneficios de emergencia después de que se terminen.

¿Preguntas? Llame al 1-888-445-1955 o visite CALFresh COVID-19 Página Web

Food Distribution

Many different entities across Lake County hold food distribution events throughout the month. Lake County Department of Social Services (LCDSS) does not manage any of these events or agencies. This content is for information only and is subject to change.

Food Distribution List in English and Spanish (PDF).

Food Pantries

Many different entities across Lake County hold food distribution events throughout the month. LCDSS does not manage any of these events or agencies. This content is for information only and is subject to change.

View the current Food Pantry List (PNG).

Eligibility

To start a CalFresh Application, all we need is your name, address, and signature. If you are applying for CalFresh, we will screen your application for expedited services and, if eligible, benefits will issue within three days of the date we receive your signed application.

These programs are available to those who meet eligibility requirements. Find out if you are eligible here:

• Online at GetCalFresh or the BenefitsCal website
• By phone:
  Toll Free: 800-628-5288
  Phone: 707-995-4200
  TTY: 711
  Monday through Friday
  8 am to 5 pm
• In person:
  15975 Anderson Ranch Parkway
  Lower Lake, CA 95457
  Monday through Friday
  8 am to 5 pm
• By mail application packets and a variety of forms in English and Spanish are available for pick up outside our lobby entrance without need to enter the lobby, and can be returned by:
  • Drop boxes located by the main doors and front gate
  • Fax: 707-995-4204
  • Mail to:
    P.O. Box 9000
    Lower Lake, CA 95457