CalFresh

What is CalFresh?

CalFresh is California’s food assistance program that helps eligible individuals and families with monthly benefits to purchase groceries. Benefits are provided through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used at many grocery stores, farmers’ markets and any participating retailers.

College students may qualify for CalFresh based on factors such as their income, household size, enrollment status, employment or participation in certain programs. CalFresh can help students afford nutritious food, reduce financial stress and stay focused on their educational goals.

Student Eligibility

Many Palomar College students qualify for CalFresh. Student eligibility is determined by San Diego County and is dependent on several factors. The information below helps in understanding the eligibility process.

Step 1. Are you considered a College Student?

Student must meet all three criteria to be considered a college student

Be between the ages of 18 and 49 years old
Be enrolled at least half-time (6 or more units) in an institution of higher education
Be physically and mentally able to attend school and work

Step 2. Meet basic CalFresh eligibility

Student must meet all requirements to be eligible to apply for CalFresh

Be a U.S citizen or have an eligible immigration status
Meet residency requirements (be a San Diego county resident for 30 days)
Meet income guidelines based on household size

Note: San Diego County determines final eligibility

Step 3. Meet Student Eligibility Requirement

In addition to the requirements above, students must meet at least one of the following:

Be enrolled in an approved Local Program that Increases Employability (LPIE)
- As of June 1, 2026 associate or bachelor’s degree programs at a California Community College (CCC), California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) are designated LPIEs.
Be approved for Federal Work Study
Receive a TANF-funded Cal Grant A or B
Receive CalWorks or Tribal TANF
Work an average of 20 hours per week
Be employed in an eligible on-campus job
Be responsible for the care of a qualifying dependent child

Not sure if you qualify? We can Help!

Many students are surprised to learn they are eligible for CalFresh. We encourage you to fill out our CalFresh interest form, by filling out this form you give us permission to share your information with a San Diego Food Bank representative who can:

Help determine your eligibility
Assist you with your application
Answer questions about required documents
Provide guidance throughout the application process

Using your EBT Card

EBT Cards can be used in person and online.

You can check your balance using the following:

By dialing 1-877-328-9677
Online on BenefitsCal
Printed on your receipt from an EBT/CalFresh purchase
If you have an Amazon account you can check your balance on the web or app. Items that are EBT eligible are labeled on Amazon

What CAN you purchase with CalFresh?

CalFresh can be used to purchase various food items such as:

Fruits & Vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned)
Meat, poultry and fish (fresh, frozen, canned)
Dairy products (fresh or shelf-stable)
Breads, cereal, baked goods
Spices & seasonings
Ketchup, mustard and other condiments
Seeds & plants (those that produce food)

What CAN’T you purchase with CalFresh?

CalFresh does not cover alcoholic beverages, foods that have been prepared or heated in store and non-food items such as pet food, household supplies and vitamins.