Louisiana Purchase, a New Orleans–inspired restaurant in San Diego’s North Park, has started a program called ‘Free Meal Wednesdays.’ The initiative supports residents affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown. It began this week and is scheduled to continue through November 2025. The goal is to help people facing food insecurity due to delayed paychecks and paused CalFresh (SNAP) benefits.
The restaurant, at 2305 University Avenue, is working with the Harvey Family Foundation and Black San Diego. They will give out free hot meals every Wednesday at 3 p.m. People who are unpaid federal workers or have missed CalFresh reloads can receive a meal by showing a valid ID or EBT card. Meals are available while supplies last. The restaurant encourages community members to share information about the program and to volunteer.
Nearly 400,000 San Diego County residents are experiencing disruptions in food assistance. Local officials have noted the need for community support if the shutdown continues. County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer has called attention to this issue…