SAN MARCOS, CA (October 30, 2025) – Since the pandemic the Palomar College Basic Needs program has experienced an increasing demand for services from students facing food and housing insecurities. The program connects students to on-campus resources and with community organizations. In result, students are able to better focus on achieving their educational goals.
With the federal government shutdown continuing, some resources such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known in California as CalFresh, are at risk, which will negatively impact students. Specifically, Palomar College students registered with CalFresh may not receive their benefits as scheduled in the early part of November.
“To support enrolled students who are registered with CalFresh and impacted by the shutdown, we are temporarily increasing food limits at the Anita and Stan Maag Food and Nutrition Center at the San Marcos campus, and our related Campus Care Locker program,” said Palomar College Basic Needs Manager, Riham Shenouda. Students are typically able to receive 20 pounds of food each month. During the month of November, students may receive up to 30 pounds of food per week. Students with dependents will receive an additional 5 pounds for one dependent or 10 pounds for two dependents, for a maximum of 40 pounds per week. This extended allotment will continue through November 2025, and again in December if the federal government shutdown continues to affect CalFresh benefits.
The Anita and Stan Maag Food and Nutrition Center (the Center) provides students with an opportunity to shop for a variety of fresh groceries, pantry staples, ready-to-eat items, hygiene kits, diapers, and period products. In addition, the recently launched Campus Care Locker program offers students whose schedule does not allow for them to visit the Center during normal operating hours, with the ability to place an order online. The order is secured inside a locker at the main campus or at one of the education centers in Escondido, Fallbrook, or Racho Bernardo, depending on the student’s request.
In addition, to the items provided at the Center and through the locker program, the Palomar College Basic Needs team also supports students with clothing assistance and off-campus resources for housing, financial support, and beyond.
“The success of our students is our priority. Focusing on removing obstacles so students can concentrate on completing their courses while also emphasizing their well-being is central to our mission. This holistic model helps students thrive academically and personally,” said Assistant Superintendent Vice President of Student Services, Nick Mata.
More information on the Basic Needs program at Palomar College can be found at the Basic Needs webpage.