The O.C. Social Services Agency approves a Hot Food Waiver for CalFresh clients

Orange County, Calif. (November 4, 2020) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) recently approved a request by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) that allows current CalFresh households to purchase hot, prepared foods using their California Golden State electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card through November 22, 2020. The request was made to help residents impacted by the recent wildfires and power outages who may not be able to store food or have access to cooking facilities.

The hot food waiver applies to 35 California counties, including Orange County.

Who is eligible?

· All Orange County households and individuals who are currently receiving CalFresh benefits.

Where can hot food be purchased?

· CalFresh recipients wishing to purchase hot, prepared foods with their EBT cards should visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-locator for a list of authorized EBT retailers in their area.

For more information, or to check your EBT balance, please visit the CalFresh Benefits Helpline at (877) 847-3663 (FOOD).

For immediate food assistance, please contact Orange County Food Bank at (714) 897-6670 or Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County at (949) 653-2900.