CalFresh Food Benefits
CalFresh is California’s statewide food assistance program that provides eligible students and households with monthly funds to purchase groceries. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works like a debit card at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and other approved retailers.
Not Sure If You Qualify? Apply Anyway.
CalFresh eligibility depends on factors such as household size, income, expenses, immigration status, and, for some college students, meeting a student exemption. Review these factors to see whether you may qualify.
Do not rule yourself out based on one requirement. The county makes the final eligibility determination after reviewing your complete application.
Two Ways to Apply
Option 1: Apply Online
You can apply independently through BenefitsCal, California’s official online benefits portal.
Apply online through BenefitsCal
If you are approved, CalFresh benefits will be loaded onto an EBT card each month that you remain eligible. The amount you receive will depend on your household size, income, expenses, and other circumstances.
Option 2: Get Help Applying at Raider Central
Need help 海角社区? Raider Central offers general application guidance, access to technology, and document-scanning assistance every Thursday and Friday by appointment.
Schedule an appointment: Call (805) 553-4120
Location: Raider Central, Student Services Annex, Room 112
What Raider Central Can Help With
Raider Central staff can:
- Explain the general application process
- Help you identify commonly requested documents
- Answer basic application questions
- Provide access to computers and scanners
- Help you upload documents while completing your application
Please Note:
- Raider Central staff do not determine CalFresh eligibility.
- We cannot access your BenefitsCal account or application after it has been submitted.
- We do not have access to county case information, notices, interview decisions, or application status updates.
- Questions about an existing application or case must be directed to the county administering your benefits.