CalFresh Eligibility Changes Impact Thousands of Immigrants in California
Thousands of immigrants in California are set to lose access to CalFresh benefits due to changes in eligibility criteria. According to the Food4All Coalition and the Alameda County Community Food Bank, approximately 72,000 lawfully present immigrants will be affected. The changes, effective April 1, mean that certain groups, including asylees, refugees, and survivors of trafficking, will no longer be eligible for new CalFresh benefits. Those already enrolled will retain their benefits until their next recertification, typically every 12 months. The California Department of Social Services has outlined that individuals such as U.S. citizens, nationals, and certain lawful permanent residents will remain eligible. The changes are part of broader adjustments to CalFresh, including new work or community engagement requirements set to begin on June 1. 
