Food Assistance During the Federal Shutdown

Oct. 31, 2025
Food Assistance images with canned good with a translucent blue and yellow gradient 211 LA color scheme on top, with the 211 LA logo on the top right

Beginning November 1, more than 1.5 million children and adults living in Los Angeles County who rely on CalFresh benefits to feed their families will experience a pause in their regular assistance due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Existing EBT balances will remain available, but new benefit distributions will be delayed until the government reopens. For households that depend on these funds to purchase groceries, this interruption can have serious consequences.

211 LA is helping residents across Los Angeles County stay connected to vital food resources and programs, to ensure that no one goes hungry during this challenging time. Our trained specialists can guide callers to local food banks, meal programs, and emergency assistance options available now.

What you can do to support

We encourage readers who wish to make food donations to start locally by supporting community schools or faith-based centers. Visit your neighborhood school or church website to check for pantry wish lists and confirm whether the facility is currently accepting food donations.

What CalFresh Recipients Should Know

Keep submitting paperwork. If you are new to CalFresh or renewing your benefits, continue submitting all required forms and documentation to prevent further delays once the program resumes.

Check your current EBT balance. Any funds already loaded onto your EBT card will remain accessible throughout the shutdown.

Stay informed. Visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) for the latest updates and frequently asked questions about benefit timing and eligibility.

Drive-Thru Food Distribution

 

  • The Kia Forum
  • 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood
  • Saturday, November 1, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Drive-thru only

This large-scale distribution event, hosted in partnership with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, will provide boxes of fresh produce, pantry staples, and household essentials to residents affected by the CalFresh delay.

Additional Food Assistance Resources

LA County DPSS – CalFresh Updates and FAQsDirect Website

Get the latest information on how the federal shutdown affects CalFresh benefits, including eligibility details and renewal guidance.

LA Regional Food Bank Pantry LocatorDirect Website

Step 1: Visit LAFoodBank.org

Step 2: Enter your zip code or location

Step 3: Browse available pantries near you

También puede llamar al 211 para asistencia alimentaria.

Local Food Pantries and Meal Programs

Find food banks, free meal services, and community-based organizations offering groceries across Los Angeles County.

DoorDash Emergency Food Delivery ProgramDirect Website

Request no-cost home delivery of emergency food boxes for residents unable to travel to distribution sites.

LA County Parks and Recreation Free Meal ProgramsDirect Website

Learn about free food and grocery distribution at parks and recreation centers throughout Los Angeles County.

Upcoming One-Day Distribution Events

Stay updated on short-term community food drives and pop-up distribution sites scheduled across the region.

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