Starting November 1, CalFresh (SNAP) benefits will be abruptly cut off for more than 55,000 Santa Barbara County residents. As the federal government shutdown persists, the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County has launched an emergency response to help protect local families from the impact of missed paychecks and suspended food assistance.
To meet the anticipated surge in need, the Foodbank will increase food supplies by 10 to 15 percent in targeted areas. The organization is expanding programs that serve children and families, enhancing support for students and older adults, and strengthening home-delivery options for those with limited mobility or disabilities to ensure continued access to nutritious food for all residents.
The Foodbank has designated CalFoods emergency funds to purchase high-demand items, including eggs, bread, and culturally preferred foods. However, using these funds now to meet immediate needs will limit what can be drawn upon later in the fiscal year.
The Foodbank also began supporting federal employees affected by the shutdown on October 23, providing food for distributions at Vandenberg Space Force Base and staple grocery items to TSA employees in both North and South County…