Last Updated: July 2, 2025

Introduction

While CalFresh is an essential resource, many California families need additional support to achieve food security and financial stability. This comprehensive guide connects you with community resources, digital tools, and local organizations that can provide extra help when you need it most.

Food Banks and Pantries

California Association of Food Banks

• Network of 41 food banks serving all 58 counties
• Fresh produce, proteins, and shelf-stable items
• No income requirements at most locations
• Find locations: cafoodbanks.org

Major Regional Food Banks:

• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Serves LA County with 300+ partner agencies
• San Francisco-Marin Food Bank: 270+ distribution sites
• Second Harvest Food Bank (Silicon Valley): Largest food bank in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties
• Feeding San Diego: Serves San Diego County with mobile markets and school pantries

Specialized Food Programs:

• Mobile food pantries: Bring fresh food directly to communities
• Senior food boxes: Monthly packages for adults 60+
• Weekend backpack programs: Food for children to take home from school

Digital Apps and Technology Resources

mRelief

• Snap a photo of documents to check benefit eligibility
• Apply for multiple programs simultaneously
• Available in English and Spanish
• Covers CalFresh, WIC, Medi-Cal, and more

Propel (Providers)

• EBT balance checking and transaction history
• Find nearby stores that accept EBT
• Discover local resources and food assistance programs

CalFresh Mobile App

• Official California app for benefit management
• Report changes, check case status
• Access program information and updates

211 California

• Dial 2-1-1 for comprehensive resource referrals
• Available 24/7 in multiple languages
• Covers housing, utilities, healthcare, food assistance

Anti-Hunger Nonprofits and Organizations

California Hunger Action Los Angeles

• Policy advocacy and direct services
• Benefits enrollment assistance
• Community education and outreach

San Francisco Food Security Task Force

• Coordinates city-wide anti-hunger efforts
• Connects families with multiple resource types
• Advocacy for policy improvements

Orange County Food Bank

• Direct food distribution and mobile markets
• Nutrition education and cooking classes
• School-based food programs

Central California Food Bank

• Serves Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, and Tulare counties
• Rural and urban food distribution
• Disaster relief food assistance

Child and Family Services

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

• Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5
• Nutrition education and breastfeeding support
• Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula
• Can be used alongside CalFresh

School Meal Programs

• Free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch
• After-school and summer meal programs
• Weekend food backpack programs
• Community Eligibility Provision schools offer free meals to all students

Head Start Programs

• Early childhood education and nutrition services
• Family support and parent engagement
• Health and mental health services
• Available in communities statewide

Healthcare and Mental Health Resources

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

• Sliding fee scale based on income
• Comprehensive healthcare services
• Many locations throughout California
• Some offer nutrition counseling and food pharmacy programs

California Department of Public Health - Nutrition Programs

• Nutrition education classes
• Cooking demonstrations and food safety training
• Chronic disease prevention programs

Mental Health Services

• County mental health departments offer sliding scale services
• CalHOPE provides crisis counseling and support
• Many food banks offer trauma-informed care

Housing and Utility Assistance

California Emergency Rental Assistance

• Help with back rent and utilities
• Prevents eviction and homelessness
• More stable housing means better access to food storage and preparation

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

• Utility bill assistance
• Weatherization services
• More money available for food when energy costs are managed

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

• Rental assistance for eligible families
• Administered by local housing authorities
• Stable housing improves food security

Employment and Education Support

CalJOBS

• Job search assistance and career services
• Skills training and education programs
• Better employment leads to improved food security

California Community Colleges

• Many offer food pantries for students
• Career training programs
• Financial aid and support services

CalFresh Employment and Training Program

• Job training and education for CalFresh recipients
• Transportation and childcare assistance
• Pathway to economic self-sufficiency

Local Community-Based Organizations

Los Angeles Area:

• LA Food Policy Council
• Union Rescue Mission
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
• SOVA Community Food & Resource Program

San Francisco Bay Area:

• St. Anthony's Foundation
• Alameda County Community Food Bank
• Sacred Heart Community Service (San Jose)

San Diego Area:

• Feeding San Diego
• Father Joe's Villages
• San Diego Food Bank

Central Valley:

• Central California Food Bank
• Community Action Partnership of Kern
• Fresno EOC (Economic Opportunities Commission)

How to Access These Resources

Getting Started:

1. Call 211 for a comprehensive resource assessment
2. Visit your local Department of Social Services office
3. Contact your county's community action agency
4. Ask at your children's schools about family resources

What to Bring:

• Photo identification
• Proof of address
• Documentation of household size and income
• CalFresh EBT card (if applicable)

Questions to Ask:

• What services are available immediately?
• Are there waiting lists or application processes?
• What documentation is required?
• How often can services be accessed?

Shop With Confidence

While these community resources provide essential support, managing your CalFresh benefits efficiently is equally important. Download the Forage app to:

• ✅ Check your EBT balance safely and securely anytime
• 💰 Unlock exclusive cash back offers and rewards
• 🛒 Find the best grocery deals to stretch every dollar

Combined with community resources, smart benefit management helps ensure your family always has access to nutritious food.

Ready to make more out of EBT?

Download the Forage App (Apple App Store / Google Play Store) today to start managing your EBT benefits with ease and unlock exclusive savings across California!