CalFresh for Seniors Questions and Answers
Frequently Asked Questions about Seniors and CalFresh Print Version (PDF)
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh was previously known as the California Food Stamp Program. It is not a welfare program. It is a nutrition assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food.
Is it difficult to apply for CalFresh?
No. To submit an application and see if you qualify:
- Apply online at: www.benefitscalwin.org. The web site is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and includes a user friendly screening tool; or
- Call 1 (888) 421-8080 for personal assistance, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm;
- Apply in person at the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department.
- 1020 Emeline Avenue, Santa Cruz
- 119 West Beach Street, Watsonville
I’m worried about how people will look at me if I use food stamps to purchase groceries?
CalFresh has replaced the food stamp program. It uses an EBT care which works much like a bank debit card. EBT cards are accepted at most grocery stores and Farmer’s Markets throughout the County.
When you use CalFresh, you support our local community businesses with your purchases. Most importantly, CalFresh helps provide nutritious food that keeps you healthier and provides for a better quality of life.
How do I qualify for CalFresh?
A senior is an individual 60 years or older. There are federal guidelines for seniors that include low-income definitions and eligibility requirements. County eligibility workers will review your application with you to ensure that you receive the correct benefits.
Individuals receiving SSI/SSP do not qualify for the program, (as of June 13, 2011, some suspended SSI/SSP recipients may be eligible) but other members in the household may still qualify.
To apply in Santa Cruz County you must be a resident of the County and a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident. Others in your home may be eligible even if you are not.
Can I receive CalFresh if I get Social Security?
Yes, Social Security recipients who meet eligibility requirements can get CalFresh.
What can I buy with CalFresh?
CalFresh can be used to purchase food and seeds and plants that are used to grow food.
I’ve been told that even if I qualify for the program, I might only receive $16 a month for food. Is this really worth my time?
Yes! For a one person household, $16 is the minimum monthly benefit for CalFresh. The maximum is $200 a month. It is important to report your out-of-pocket medical and shelter expenses to ensure you receive the correct benefit amount. County eligibility staff will work directly with you to review any questions you might have if you think your benefit is not correct.
In Santa Cruz County it is estimated that only 50% of qualified seniors apply for food stamps and many of these seniors would qualify for more than the minimum benefit.
Keep in mind, that even with a minimum benefit of $16 a month, you are adding $192 to your annual food budget. If you are eligible for the maximum benefit of $200 a month, you add $2400 annually.
Seriously, what can I really buy with only $16 a month?
Plan ahead. Think about staples that can stretch your existing food budget. A recent trip to a grocery store provided all of the following items for $16:
5 pound bag russet potatoes @ $.99
3 pound bag of yams @ $2.99
5 pound bag of gala apples @ $1.50
1 gallon milk @ $2.59
1 pound dried split green peas @ $.79
1 pound dried pinto beans @ $.99
5 pound long grain white rice @ $1.99
1 pound dried 16 bean soup mix @ $1.29
1 dozen Jumbo brown eggs @ $1.39
Sub-Total = 14.52
Subtract $3.00 store coupon
Total = 11.52 * can carry over remaining $4.48 for next shopping trip or into the following months.