CalFresh Toolkit

What is CalFresh? 

CalFresh helps individuals and families purchase the food they need to live happier, healthier lives. 

CalFresh is California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Formerly known as Food Stamps, CalFresh is financial assistance that is received on a monthly basis through an EBT card to use to purchase grocery items.  

1. Find out if you’re eligible: 

In order to be eligible for CalFresh, college students must meet the income limit and meet at least one student exemption. 

Many students will meet an eligibility exemption through Local Program that Increase Employability (LPIE’s). Here are the approved programs and majors at Shasta College: 

2. Fill out the CalFresh Application: 

3. Submit all your required documents:  

Commonly required student documents include meal plan (if living on campus), financial aid award letter, and current class schedule. Try to submit all documents with your initial application, and make sure all documents have your full name clearly shown.  

If you need assistance navigating Shasta College systems to find these documents, please visit or contact The Basic Needs Resouce Center and a Specialist can help you.

The Basic Needs Resouce Center - Building 2300, Room 2308
BasicNeeds@shastacollege.edu
(530) 242-7626

4. Follow up by checking your mail and email:  

Sometimes, additional documentation is required to process your CalFresh Application. Requests may be sent to your mail or email detailing any forms or documentation required. Some of these forms may need to be filled out by your college registrar or financial aid office. 

If approved, your EBT card will be mailed to you. 

5. Renew and recertify when required:  

  • After an approval, you'll be required to renew your benefits in order to continue receiving them. Six months after your initial application, you'll be asked to submit the SAR-7. You'll be mailed a copy of this form, but you can fill it out virtually on GetCalFresh.com. 
  • One year after your initial application, you'll be required to re-certify by filling out the recertification form.
  • You'll need to report any changes that have occurred, such as address and income changes. 

Useful things to know 

  • You can check your EBT card balance by going to ebt.ca.gov.  
  • Some farmer markets accept EBT!  
  • You can continue using your CalFresh benefits over an academic break.