SNAP is a federally funded program that provides money for people in a low-income bracket to buy groceries regularly. Over 100,000 people in the San Francisco area receive SNAP Benefits. However, due to the ongoing government shutdown, funding for the program has halted. In response, the city of San Francisco has issued grocery cards to SNAP recipients, and local food banks are also offering assistance. Keep reading for more resources.
Prepaid grocery cards
Due to the lapse in federal funding for SNAP, the San Francisco Human Services Agency and Mayor Daniel Laurie are issuing a one-time-use prepaid grocery card for those who typically receive CalFresh (SNAP) benefits. The cards are the result of a partnership between San Francisco and Crankstart, totaling $18 million in funding to help support San Franciscans. San Franciscans enrolled in SNAP benefits will receive an email with instructions on accessing their prepaid card, which can be used at grocery stores in the city.
“Every day, tens of thousands of low-income San Francisco families, children, seniors, and other individuals rely on CalFresh as a lifeline to prevent hunger,” said SFHSA Executive Director Trent Rhorer. “The funding supplemental will provide much-needed support for our most vulnerable San Franciscans so they won’t have to choose between having food on the table and paying their rent during the federal government shutdown.”
Other resources
Project Open Hand: SF residents that are 60+ or adults with disabilities (18+) can receive a free meal at one of the 10 Community Nutrition Program sites in the city. You can find a full list of sites here.
Prepaid Grocery Card: Due to the lapse in federal funding for SNAP, San Francisco Human Services Agency and Mayor Daniel Laurie are issuing a one-time use prepaid grocery card for those who typically receive CalFresh (SNAP) benefits.
Delivery apps: Many delivery apps offer discounted or free delivery for SNAP users. Insta Cart is offering 50% off orders (up to $50) for SNAP users, and DoorDash is waiving fees on 300,000 orders with the code SNAPDD for SNAP recipients.
Local food pantries: There are several food pantries in the area that offer regular assistance to those in need. You can search for a food pantry near you through the SF Marin Food Bank website here.
You can learn more about CalFresh and get updates via the San Francisco Human Services Agency website.