California food banks urge lawmakers to maintain CalFood funding amidst rising hunger rates

The California State Senate's Human Services Committee convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding food insecurity and the critical role of programs like CalFresh and food banks in combating hunger across the state.

During the meeting, advocates emphasized that while programs such as CalFresh serve as essential safety nets, they are not permanent solutions to hunger. Gio, a program beneficiary, shared his personal experience, highlighting how CalFresh allows families to focus on education and employment without the constant worry of food scarcity. He urged policymakers to support legislation that strengthens food aid programs, emphasizing that their decisions can significantly impact the lives of those struggling with food insecurity.

Becky Silva, Director of Government Relations for the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB), presented alarming statistics indicating that over 20% of households in California are currently facing food insecurity, with the situation particularly dire for families with children. She noted that these rates mirror the peak levels observed during the pandemic, underscoring a growing crisis.

Silva also discussed the importance of the Cal Food program, which enables food banks to purchase essential food items. However, she warned that funding for this program is set to drastically decrease from an average of $60 million per year to just $8 million, a 90% cut. This reduction could force food banks to limit food offerings and potentially close distribution sites, exacerbating the hunger crisis in California.

The committee acknowledged the increasing demand for food assistance, with reports of significant rises in the number of families served by food banks. For instance, the Community Food Bank of San Benito reported a 114% increase in families served compared to two years ago.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted the urgent need for sustained support for food assistance programs like CalFresh and Cal Food. As food insecurity continues to rise, the actions taken by lawmakers will be crucial in ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to the resources they need to thrive.