Long Beach City College is working hand in hand with CalFresh to change the rumbling feeling of hunger, to the steady feeling of full for qualifying students by coming onto campus to assist students with applications.
CalFresh is a government program that will give low-income households to help funds for students to purchase food.
The funds are placed on a personalized debit card, as opposed to traditional methods of food assistance.
This action was taken in order to help comfort students which can avoid potential embarrassment from other peers due to receiving government aid.
Most grocery stores in the Long Beach and neighboring areas accept CalFresh benefits as a form of payment.
Representatives from the Los Angeles Food Bank will come to campus to assist students in completing and submitting their CalFresh applications and answer any questions students may have.
Being able to consume and afford three meals a day may give students the boost they need to excel in their studies.
Jae Delos Santos who is a veteran and returning student here at LBCC, thinks he can really use the extra assistance in order to sustain his day to day lifestyle.
This program and programs like it, have the potential to help students who have certain disadvantages get to an equal learning level.
“What I really love about this program is when I help someone who is hungry. Especially when they come back and say ‘thank you’!” said Cynthia Onoa, who has worked for the Food Bank for 10 years.
“Food Bank used to have a goal to assist 75 people per month, now we have no goal, we just want to help when we can.” said Joanna Lopez, Food Bank representative since 2012.
If you are Interested in applying for CalFresh please contact DSPS or visit their LAC location in Building A.