CalFresh

All sites are temporarily closed to the public, due to the COVID-19 health emergency.

However, you can still apply online, by phone at
888-472-4463, by mail, through our drop-off service, and by fax at 805-658-4530.

As part of the CalFresh COVID-19 response, we have enacted several measures to ensure individuals and families are able to continue meeting their nutritional needs: additional food benefits, administrative flexibilities, and emergency food support. The link below has information on Emergency Allotments for CalFresh recipients, Pandemic-EBT benefits (updated information), and more:

CalFresh Response to COVID-19 – Updated

You can use your EBT card to buy groceries online at Amazon and Walmart to make shopping easier during these uncertain times. Visit cdss.ca.gov/ebt-online for more details.

CalFresh Food Benefits – EBT Online Shopping

Below is a link to some Frequently Asked Questions on CalFresh and other benefits, as well as how you can help expedite the processing of your CalFresh application during the coronavirus pandemic.

FAQs During COVID-19

To complete your application and for quality control purposes, you may be called by the County of Ventura. Please make sure to update any phone number changes, and please make sure that unknown callers are not blocked so we can reach you.

The CalFresh program helps families and people who have little or no income to buy nutritious groceries.

CalFresh benefits are not cash.

CalFresh benefits come loaded on an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card that can be used like a bank debit card to buy food at most grocery stores.

Has your income been impacted due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus)? If you are currently receiving CalFresh, you must report all changes to your worker at 888-472-4463.

If you are not currently receiving CalFresh, learn how to apply.

If you are 60 years or older or have a disability, additional resources can be found at Ventura County Area Agency on Aging

Resources to Help with Interpretation of Public Charge Rule

Recursos para Ayudar con la Interpretación de la Regla de Carga Pública

Important Message: The Human Services Agency does not require COVID-19 testing or ask applicants about their health status in connection with their application for benefits. Similarly, children may only enter foster care if they have experienced or are at risk of abuse or neglect. Children cannot be placed in foster care just because a parent may be ill.

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) officially launches this year. RMP allows CalFresh clients who are 60 years or older, people with disabilities, and individuals who are homeless to use their EBT cards to purchase meals from participating restaurants. Ventura County is now recruiting local restaurants for the RMP. Learn more at vchsa.org/rmp.