The CalFresh Program helps to improve the health and well-being of qualified households and individuals by providing them a means to supplement their nutritional needs.
The CalFresh Program, federally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), issues monthly electronic benefits on a card that works just like a debit card and can be used to buy most foods at most grocery stores and farmers markets.
The amount of CalFresh benefits you are entitled to will depend on the number of eligible people in your household and how much monthly income is left after certain expenses (deductions) are subtracted. A CalFresh household is a group of people who live together, related or not, who buy food and prepare meals together.
You may be able to get your first CalFresh benefit allotment within 3 calendar days (add 1 more day if the 3rd day is a Sunday). Qualifying households will follow the same application process but shall have their application scheduled for review/interview within 3 days. Not all documents have to be provided before initial benefits are issued, a worker will tell you the minimum requirements. You may qualify for expedited service if you are experiencing one of the following eligibility factors;
Households with members who are age 60 and older or who have a disability:
Online: Visit Benefitscal.com or getcalfresh.org to apply
Download applications from here:
English SAWS 2 PLUS.pdf
Spanish SAWS 2 PLUS.pdf
In Person: You can pick up an application from the Department of Health and Human Services at 880 Northcrest Drive Crescent City, CA.
By Phone: Call our office at 707-464-3191 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm to request an application.
By Mail: Send completed and signed application by mail to Department of Health and Human Services 880 Northcrest Drive Crescent City, CA.
By Fax: Fax completed and signed application to 707-465-1783.
Please note: Your completed application will be processed when returned and any requested verification have been received. You may also need to complete an interview (the county will notify you if one is needed).
The minimum necessary information to file a CalFresh application to preserve your beginning date of aid is: your name, address, and signature.
1. Do I have to be on Public Assistance to be eligible to receive CalFresh?
No. Many recipients of CalFresh are employed, elderly or disabled who need assistance purchasing nutritional food.
2. How long does it take to receive CalFresh benefits?
If you qualify for CalFresh you will receive benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application.
3. I’m a single adult without dependents; can I apply for CalFresh benefits?
Yes.
4. What if I have a bank account?
Liquid resources such as cash, checking and savings accounts are not counted in the CalFresh Program.
5. What if I’m disabled, and am unable to cook for myself?
Disabled or elderly individuals may have others assist them with cooking when needed.
6. What if I am an adult who lives with my parents?
If you are under 22 years of age, your parents and their income must be included in the CalFresh household, including step-parents or adoptive parents. If you are over 22 years of age, living with your parents and have customarily purchased and prepared your food separate from your parents you may apply for yourself without including your parents.
7. If I have a special diet such as those for high blood pressure or diabetes, may I apply separately from the rest of the household?
Yes, if you provide a sworn statement to that effect.
8. What if I receive food from monthly food banks?
You may receive CalFresh and also obtain food from food banks as well as occasional food bank gift baskets.
9. If I receive monthly food commodities from a Tribe can I also receive CalFresh?
No, you may receive one or the other.
Social Services Branch | Public Assistance / Employment & Training Branch |
880 Northcrest Drive
Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone (707) 464-3191
Fax (707) 465-1783
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880 Northcrest Drive
Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone (707) 464-3191
Fax (707) 465-1783
|
Behavioral Health Branch
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Public Health Branch
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455 K Street Crescent City, CA 95531 (707) 464-7224 (800) 446-4408 (toll free) |
400 L Street
Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone (707) 464-0861
Fax (707) 465-6701
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