Millions of Americans are at risk of losing their food stamps next month due to the ongoing shutdown.

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom announced that President Trump’s federal government shutdown will likely delay food benefits for millions of Californians who rely on CalFresh cards to feed themselves and their families. If President Trump and Congress do not reopen the federal government by October 23, or take action to fund benefits, CalFresh benefits will likely be delayed in November.

This afternoon, the California Department of Social Services began notifying all counties across the Golden State to prepare for this impact. These crucial food benefits are primarily 100 percent federally funded and support roughly 5.5 million Californians — who will begin to be notified as early as this week about the potential benefit delay. In addition to the federally funded CalFresh benefits, some state funded food benefits will also be impacted.

This disastrous and harmful impact comes as the MAGA majority in Congress have allowed Trump’s shutdown to continue for one month.

“Trump’s failure to open the federal government is now endangering people’s lives and making basic needs like food more expensive — just as the holidays arrive. It is long past time for Republicans in Congress to grow a spine, stand up to Trump, and deliver for the American people.”

Governor Gavin Newsom

This devastating potential delay to people’s food comes as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches — likely meaning many could now go hungry during the holidays and putting further stress on local food banks. In California, 63.2% of SNAP participants are children or elderly.

“Government should be measured by how we protect people’s lives, their health, and their well-being. Parents and caregivers should not be forced to choose between buying groceries or paying bills. While the GOP tries to tally political wins in Washington, hardworking Americans are facing bare cupboards and counting what’s left to eat. That is unacceptable.”

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

The federal government has directed states to hold November 2025 benefit data that would normally allow CalFresh funds to be allocated to persons with CalFresh benefit cards. This impact is immediate and is first affecting persons newly enrolling in CalFresh during the second half of October and then all enrollees if the shutdown lasts longer than October 23rd.

The longer this Trump initiated shut down goes, the more likely additional programs will be impacted and more Californians will feel the devastating and disastrous consequences of Trump’s federal government shut down.

Barger Responds to Budget Update on CalFresh Benefit Risk, Emphasizes Collaboration and Support for Residents

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger issued the following statement in response to today’s Los Angeles County budget update presented by Acting Chief Executive Officer Joseph M. Nicchitta, which noted that CalFresh benefits may run out by November 1 due to the ongoing federal funding lapse:

“Nearly 1.5 million Los Angeles County residents—more than one in ten people—rely on CalFresh to help feed their families,” Supervisor Kathryn Barger stated. “As we monitor the evolving funding situation, my focus is on making sure residents have clear information and access to local resources if benefits are delayed. Our County is working hand in hand with state partners to minimize disruptions and keep families supported. I appreciate our community partners and food banks who are stepping up to help. This is a crucial moment for collaboration.”

Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Social Services has already begun outreach efforts, including text, email, and social media notifications to CalFresh recipients, encouraging those with immediate food needs to contact local food banks.

“The strength of Los Angeles County lies in how we come together during challenging times,” Supervisor Barger added. “We’ll continue working hard to help families have the resources they need to stay healthy and fed. We need to prepare for the long haul.”

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