The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as “food stamps,” has long been a lifeline for millions of Americans, helping low-income individuals and families access the food they need. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, SNAP serves over 41.6 million people across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. But in California, there’s an added benefit that many recipients may not know about.
California’s SNAP program, known locally as CalFresh, offers a unique opportunity for recipients to stretch their food budgets even further, especially when it comes to purchasing locally grown fruits and vegetables. Through the Double Up Food Bucks initiative, eligible families can effectively double their spending on California-grown produce, significantly enhancing their access to healthy food.
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh, which operates similarly to the federal SNAP program, is designed to help low-income California residents afford nutritious food each month. For those enrolled, benefits are typically disbursed within the first 10 days of each month, based on the last digit of their case number. The disbursement schedule for May 2025 is as follows:
- Case number ending in 1: May 1
- Case number ending in 2: May 2
- Case number ending in 3: May 3
- Case number ending in 4: May 4
- Case number ending in 5: May 5
- Case number ending in 6: May 6
- Case number ending in 7: May 7
- Case number ending in 8: May 8
- Case number ending in 9: May 9
- Case number ending in 0: May 10
To qualify for CalFresh, applicants must meet certain requirements:
- Be a California resident
- Have income within the federal poverty level
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen (e.g., legal permanent resident)
- Some adults without dependents must comply with work or job training requirements (20 hours per week), though exemptions are available until January 2027 in certain areas.
Double Up Food Bucks: An Overlooked Opportunity
For those already receiving CalFresh benefits, the Double Up Food Bucks program offers a chance to double their purchases of California-grown fruits and vegetables, up to $10 per visit. Here’s how it works: When recipients spend $10 on qualifying produce using their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, they receive a $10 coupon to spend on more fresh fruits or vegetables at participating markets and stores.
The best part? No additional registration is required—simply use your EBT card at participating locations, and you’ll automatically receive the bonus. This initiative not only supports healthy eating but also boosts local farmers and markets across California.
Maximizing SNAP Benefits with Double Up Food Bucks
With the rising cost of living and inflation still affecting food prices, this program offers much-needed relief for struggling families. For example, a household of four could qualify for up to $975 in CalFresh benefits per month. Thanks to Double Up Food Bucks, families can effectively double the value of their produce purchases, giving them more access to nutritious food at a time when prices for many goods continue to climb.
In addition to encouraging healthier eating habits, the initiative also benefits local economies by supporting California’s agricultural sector. For a full list of participating stores and markets, recipients can visit the official Double Up Food Bucks California website.
A Crucial Time to Take Advantage of Benefits
As inflation projections indicate that prices for food and services may continue to rise through the end of the year, the Double Up Food Bucks program provides an opportunity for families to make their food dollars go further. Yet, data shows that many eligible individuals remain unaware of the program or have not yet accessed its benefits.
By spreading awareness about this invaluable resource, CalFresh recipients can better navigate the challenges of feeding their families in the face of economic pressures. With a little knowledge and the help of programs like Double Up Food Bucks, low-income families in California can not only survive but thrive, enjoying fresh, healthy produce without breaking the bank.