Application intake event for CalFresh Expansion to SSI, the largest anti-hunger legislation in recent California history

We’re proud to share that Feeding San Diego, along with our partners, Serving Seniors, 2-1-1 San Diego, and the County of San Diego Health and Human Services, hosted an application intake event on July 23, 2019, to drive awareness among senior SSI recipients on the CalFresh expansion, the largest anti-hunger initiative in recent California history, and to educate seniors about the resources available to help them apply.

For the first time in 45 years, SSI recipients are now eligible to apply for CalFresh benefits. “The new law is a big step in the right direction. The expansion of CalFresh to SSI recipients will help thousands of vulnerable groups in our community, especially seniors, gain access to fresh food regularly. With support from our partners, our teams are working fast to spread the word and help SSI recipients gain these critical benefits,” shared Vince Hall, CEO of Feeding San Diego. 

From 9am in the morning, several seniors flocked the Serving Seniors Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center to seek help on the CalFresh application process, and in the first hour alone, our teams processed over 40 applications! 

We thank Senator Toni G. Atkins; President and CEO of Serving Seniors, Paul Downey; Chief of CalFresh Program at the County of San Diego Health and Human Services, Albert Garcia; and COO of 2-1-1 San Diego, Paul Redfern for their support and cooperation.