California public college students gain access to CalFresh food benefits
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that students at California's public colleges and universities can now apply for CalFresh. Degree-seeking students at community colleges, CSU campuses, and UC campuses may qualify for up to $300 per month to buy food at grocery stores and farmers markets.
California students enrolled in degree programs at community colleges, CSU campuses, and UC campuses can now apply for CalFresh, following Friday's announcement by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The benefit may provide up to $300 each month for food purchases at grocery stores and farmers markets. The change connects the state's public higher education system with its food assistance program, though eligibility rules still apply.
The change could affect California public college students who may face food affordability challenges, especially degree-seeking students at community colleges, CSU, and UC campuses. Access to up to $300 monthly may ease some grocery costs, potentially allowing recipients to focus more on coursework. It could also bring additional spending to grocery stores and farmers markets. Whether the benefit meaningfully reduces food insecurity may depend on how many students qualify and apply.