Editor’s note: This article has been updated to clarify the operation hours of campus resources and reflect the most current details regarding California’s SNAP program on Nov.20.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP, has paused its operations, affecting an estimated 42 million Americans and their access to quality groceries. This is a direct result from the federal government shutdown, which has been ongoing since Oct. 1.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP, experienced a pause in its operations. The shutdown, the longest in history which lasted 44 days from Oct. 1 through Nov. 12, resulted in suspension of SNAP benefits affecting an estimated 42 million Americans and their access to quality groceries.
SNAP benefits have fully resumed, however, leading up to the holidays it appeared people who relied on these benefits for sustenance had been negatively impacted, as the Trump administration refused to fund the program.
This was despite the fact that according to the California government website, $5 billion in contingency funds were available to keep these benefits available.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry, at this time. There will be no benefits issued Nov 1,” the U.S. Department of Agriculture website had announced.
For California residents, Cal-Fresh benefits were partially funded throughout the month of November.
California is one of several states that issued a lawsuit against the current administration for withholding the funding, with Gov. Gavin Newsom calling the lack of funding unlawful.
“While Donald Trump parades around the world trying to repair the economic damage he’s done with his incompetence, he’s denying food to millions of Americans who will go hungry next month,” Newsom said during an October press conference.
The California National Guard has been mobilized to support food banks and Californians by distributing meals to families, in efforts to minimize the residual impacts created by the government shutdown.
The Riverside City College Basic Needs Center, located in Room 104 of the Kane Building, has expanded its food support through the month of November to ensure groceries and basic resources are accessible.
In addition, the RCC food pantry will have snacks available at all six academic engagement centers. There will also be additional snacks provided in the Associated Students RCC pantry, located on the second floor of the Bradshaw Building.
As of Nov. 3, all students have been able to visit weekly the RCC food pantry, located in the RCC Digital Library, Room 231. No students will be turned away, but this will only be available until supplies last. Holiday-themed foods will be added to support any seasonal needs.
In order to access these resources, students must present their student ID. No other questions will be asked.
The pantry hours are 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday, including during Thanksgiving break. After hours days will be hosted on Wednesday evenings from 5:30-8 p.m.
A Riverside County Department of Public Social Services outreach van will be on campus on Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to help assist with any questions regarding CalFresh, including case updates.
For more information regarding local food banks, please visit: https://mcusercontent.com/410cd1a6f4a68229b18f298da/files/4f9cb3c9-483c-9f1b-9d82-18795e162c9e/Food_Support_Flyer.pdf.
“We understand that this national change may cause uncertainty and stress, and we remain committed to supporting your well-being through expanded food access and community resource connections,” RCC said in an email to students.
