CalFresh

CalFresh, EBT or SNAP is a food grant program in the state of California that can stretch your food resources. It won’t affect your existing financial aid and you don’t need your parent’s tax returns to apply. 

The average eligible student gets $150 (up to $192) each month in benefits which can be used at select locations and stores. To find locations that accept CalFresh within the USC Lyft area, click here

All students must meet income and social security guidelines. The following qualifications are a good indicator of eligibility:

• Receiving Federal Work-Study
• Working 20+ hours a week 
• Receiving a Cal Grant

Find more qualification information at http://bit.ly/SCstudents

How to apply:

1. Book an appointment with a USC CalFresh navigator by emailing pantry@usc.edu or apply on your own at https://www.getCalFresh.org/en/apply
2. Make sure to provide the following verification documents (which can also be uploaded after submitting your application):
   1. Proof of identification (Birth certificate, passport, California State ID or Driver’s License)
   2. Proof of attendance at USC (A pdf copy of your financial aid summary page)
   3. Proof of rent (This can be the housing part of financial aid summary or lease agreement)
   4. Ensure the document is dated with the amount paid, and contact info for the payee
   5. Proof of Income (Most recent pay stub received from employer(s) usually for last month)
   6. Work-Study verification
   7. Social Security Number (card not necessary)
3. You’ll get a call from CalFresh in a couple of days to verify your situation. 
4. If approved, with no county delays, you’ll get money within 30 days through an electronic benefits transfer card (EBT)

For more information about CalFresh, who qualifies, and how to apply, click here. Our volunteers can help you apply and also provide supportive information about other concerns you may have.