Waivers available for CalFresh clients

OC SOCIAL SERVICES

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) recently approved a request by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) that allows current CalFresh households to purchase hot, prepared foods using their California Golden State electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card through Nov. 22, 2020.

The request was made to help residents impacted by the recent wildfires and power outages who may not be able to store food or have access to cooking facilities.

The hot food waiver applies to 35 California counties, including Orange County.

Who is eligible?

• All Orange County households and individuals who are currently receiving CalFresh benefits.

Where can hot food be purchased?

• To purchase hot, prepared foods with EBT cards, visit https:// www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailerlocator for a list of authorized EBT retailers in their area.

For more information, or to check your EBT balance, visit the CalFresh Benefits Helpline at (877) 847-3663 (FOOD).

For immediate food assistance, contact Orange County Food Bank at (714) 897-6670 or Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County at (949) 653-2900.