UPDATE: Santa Clara County has just announced a critical $4.5 million funding boost to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley to address an impending food insecurity crisis. With approximately 133,000 residents set to lose their federal food assistance benefits next month due to the ongoing government shutdown, this support is vital as the food bank braces for an unprecedented surge in demand.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California, provides essential assistance to over 5.5 million low-income residents statewide. However, benefits, which can reach up to $785 per month for a family of three, are scheduled to expire on November 1, 2023. The Trump administration has stated it will not utilize $5 billion in contingency funds to sustain the program, intensifying the urgency of this situation. A federal judge is expected to rule on the funding cutoff soon.
Leslie Bacho, CEO of Second Harvest, anticipates longer lines at distribution sites starting this weekend. Currently, the food bank serves around 500,000 people monthly in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. Bacho explains, “Families and seniors are already struggling to balance rent, utilities, and food costs.” In a region where food insecurity rates surpass the national average, this lapse in benefits could have devastating consequences.
County Executive James Williams emphasized that this funding will enable Second Harvest to purchase more food and expand distribution points, stating, “We have to continue to provide for those most in need.” This funding comes from the county’s contingency fund, raising concerns about potential cuts elsewhere, particularly as the county faces a fiscal crisis linked to recent federal budgetary changes.
Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas expressed deep concern for her constituents, many of whom are already dealing with violence and crime. “In my district, 27,000 residents rely on CalFresh—60% of whom are seniors or children. Adding hunger to their struggles will severely impact their well-being,” she said.
Board of Supervisors President Otto Lee described the loss of benefits as a “dangerous and disturbing step by our federal administration.” He stressed the importance of equitable access to food, noting that many families are just one crisis away from hunger.
In addition to the $4.5 million, county officials are actively identifying more food supplies, volunteers, and donors to support Second Harvest. Robert Sacasa, assistant director for the county’s employment and benefits services, highlighted their outreach efforts to inform CalFresh recipients about the potential lapse in benefits and available resources.
“We know how serious these disruptions are for local families,” Sacasa stated. “We remain committed to helping all residents live with dignity and access the benefits they are eligible for during this challenging time.”
Residents of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties can find local food resources by calling Second Harvest of Silicon Valley at 1-800-984-3663 or visiting their website at shfb.org.
This urgent funding and outreach effort highlights the county’s commitment to addressing immediate food needs as it navigates the complexities of federal policy impacts. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
