$975 Food Benefits in Feb 2025: Residents of Los Angeles County affected by the recent wildfires may be eligible for emergency Disaster CalFresh (D-CalFresh) food benefits. This program aims to support individuals and families impacted by fire damage, power outages, lost income, or food loss due to the disaster. Eligible households could receive up to $975 in food benefits to help them recover.
In this guide, we’ll cover who qualifies, how to apply, and additional food assistance programs available for those in need.
Who Is Eligible for Disaster CalFresh Benefits?
Individuals and families who lived or worked in wildfire-affected areas of Los Angeles County on January 7, 2025, may qualify for Disaster CalFresh food benefits if they meet the following criteria:
- Lived or worked in an eligible fire-impacted ZIP code.
- Lost income or had extra expenses due to the wildfires.
- At least one household member is not already receiving regular CalFresh benefits.
A family of four earning up to $3,529 per month may qualify for a one-time food benefit of $975.
Eligible ZIP Codes by Wildfire
| Wildfire | Eligible ZIP Codes |
|---|---|
| Eaton Fire | 91104, 91206, 91103, 91016, 91010, 91001, 91214, 91101, 91107, 91006, 91208, 91020, 91105, 91011, 91024, 91008, 91007, 91042, 91106 |
| Hughes Fire | 91334, 91350, 91355, 91384, 91390, 93015, 93040, 93225, 93243, 93532, 93536, 00018 |
| Hurst Fire | 91342, 91344, 91321, 91326, 91381, 91311 |
| Palisades Fire | 90049, 91302, 91301, 90290, 90272, 90265, 90402, 90073, 90077, 90095, 90401, 90403, 90404, 91316, 91356, 91367, 91403, 91436, 91340 |
| Qualifying Power Outages | 91750, 93510 |
How to Apply for Disaster CalFresh Benefits
You can apply for Disaster CalFresh from February 10-14, 2025, and February 18-19, 2025 in the following ways:
By Phone: Call 866-488-8482 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
In Person: Visit a local Los Angeles DPSS office.
Important Application Details
- In most cases, benefits are available within three days of a successful interview.
- If approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card and can be used at grocery stores and authorized retailers.
- The county will inform approved applicants where and when to collect their EBT card.
Additional Food Support for Affected Residents
1. Hot Food Purchases Using CalFresh
CalFresh recipients in Los Angeles and nearby counties can use their benefits to purchase hot foods due to the emergency. This waiver is valid through February 8, 2025.
2. Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
CalFresh participants who lost food due to fire damage or power outages can request replacement benefits. This waiver is valid through February 5, 2025.
Call Los Angeles DPSS at (866) 613-3777 (Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) to request replacements.
3. Emergency Food Boxes & Water Distribution
The state has released $1 million in emergency funding to provide:
Emergency food boxes
Bottled water
Find food distribution locations through the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
More Support for CACFP Clients
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) will provide more meal options for impacted families in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
- 6,667 facilities serving 900,000 people are eligible.
- Non-congregate meal service (families can take meals home).
- Parents/guardians can pick up meals on behalf of children.
- Flexible meal service times to accommodate impacted families.
This waiver is valid through February 28, 2025.
Additional Assistance for Fire Victims
1. Health Coverage Support
Covered California is offering a special enrollment period for residents of Los Angeles and Ventura counties until March 8, 2025.
2. Disaster Assistance for Individuals & Businesses
If you lost property or income due to the wildfires, you can apply for disaster assistance:
- Online: www.DisasterAssistance.gov
- By Phone: Call 800-621-3362
- Using the FEMA App
Assistance is available in 40+ languages. If you use a relay service (video, captioned telephone, etc.), provide FEMA with your relay service number.
Residents of Los Angeles County affected by the recent wildfires can access Disaster CalFresh benefits, emergency food programs, and disaster relief assistance. Eligible families can receive up to $975 in food aid, and additional support is available through hot meal purchases, replacement benefits, and health coverage options.
To apply for Disaster CalFresh, call 866-488-8482 or visit a DPSS office before the application deadline on February 19, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the help you need!
FAQ
Who qualifies for Disaster CalFresh food benefits?
Individuals or families who lived or worked in a wildfire-affected area in Los Angeles County on January 7, 2025, and meet the income and financial loss criteria may qualify.
How much can I receive in Disaster CalFresh benefits?
A family of four earning up to $3,529 per month may receive a one-time food benefit of $975.
How do I apply for Disaster CalFresh benefits?
You can apply by calling 866-488-8482 (Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM) or by visiting a Los Angeles DPSS office in person between February 10-14 and February 18-19, 2025.
When will I receive my Disaster CalFresh benefits?
Most applicants will receive their benefits within three days of completing the interview process.
Do I need to apply if I already receive CalFresh benefits?
No, but existing CalFresh recipients in eligible ZIP codes may qualify for supplemental benefits.
Can I use my Disaster CalFresh benefits to buy hot food?
Yes, CalFresh recipients can purchase hot foods in Los Angeles County and surrounding areas through February 8, 2025.
What if I lost food purchased with CalFresh due to the fires?
You can request replacement benefits by calling Los Angeles DPSS at (866) 613-3777 before February 5, 2025.
Where can I use my Disaster CalFresh benefits?
Benefits are issued via an EBT card and can be used at grocery stores and authorized retailers accepting SNAP.
Is there additional food assistance available?
Yes, California has released $1 million in emergency food aid through the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Find local food distribution sites online.
What other resources are available for wildfire victims?
Affected individuals can access health coverage, disaster assistance, and financial relief through FEMA, Covered California, and local government programs.
