Date: November 13, 2025
Dear Students,
It has been confirmed with the federal government reopening that CalFresh/SNAP benefits should now be issued according to the normal schedule moving forward.
With so many rapid changes, we recognize that you may have questions. Below are some quick answers you may find helpful:
- Can the President or USDA take back November benefits? No. All benefits were issued in full and won’t be taken back due to the shutdown. Only normal program rules apply if a household was overpaid.
- What if I did not receive my benefits? Please contact [email protected] for assistance.
- If I applied for benefits in November, when can I expect to receive them? Newly approved clients will receive their benefits within a few days of approval.
- Are December benefits impacted? No. Recipients are expected to receive their December benefits on time and in full.
- Are CalFresh (SNAP) benefits ending entirely? No. The program is active, and those who are eligible are encouraged to apply and use their benefits.
We will continue to keep you posted as we receive additional information or updates.
With care,
The UCSF Basic Needs Team
Date: November 10, 2025
Subject: CalFresh Update: Evolving Status and Available Support
Dear Students,
With the rapidly evolving status of CalFresh benefits, much remains uncertain, and we understand how stressful this can be. If you need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out by filling out the Student Support Request Form. Our team is here to connect you with assistance and ensure you have what you need.
Because the situation continues to change quickly, we will post all updates on our Basic Needs website rather than emailing each new development. Please check the site regularly for the latest CalFresh information and campus resources.
Thank you for your patience and care for one another as we navigate this period of uncertainty together.
With care,
The UCSF Basic Needs Team
Date: November 04, 2025
Dear Students,
We have compiled a list of community resources for CalFresh recipients, including free and discounted meals across the San Francisco Bay Area. Follow our Community Resource list and check back periodically for live updates.
With care,
The UCSF Basic Needs Team
Date: October 30, 2025
Subject: Support and Resources During the Federal Government Shutdown: Update 2
Dear Students,
We are sharing an important announcement for San Francisco residents who currently receive CalFresh benefits.
The San Francisco Human Services Agency (SFHSA) will be distributing a one-time prepaid card for eligible and current CalFresh recipients. This support is intended to help those impacted by the government shutdown and the pause on November CalFresh benefits.
How to Get Your Prepaid Card
- If you are eligible, you will receive a letter from SFHSA during the first week of November.
- This letter will include a unique access code and instructions on how to access your card.
- You will have two options:
- Access a virtual card immediately, OR
- Wait 3-5 business days for a physical card in the mail
We are closely monitoring updates and will share more information as soon as it becomes available. If additional resources at other Bay Area counties become available, we will send another update.
Additional Support
If you have outstanding or urgent needs, please complete the Student Support Request Form, and a staff member will reach out to you directly.
With care,
The UCSF Basic Needs Team
Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Subject: Support and Resources During the Federal Government Shutdown
Dear Students,
- Local Food Pantries: Call 2-1-1 or visit sfmfoodbank.org/find-food to locate nearby food pantries and emergency food programs.
- Basic Needs 24/7 Food Pantry: Pantries at Mission Bay and Parnassus will now be restocked twice daily, Monday–Friday.
- Basic Needs Student Food Market: Students can pick up fresh produce every Thursday at Mission Bay or Parnassus.
- Discount Programs: UCSF offers several shopping and dining discounts, including a 5% discount at Safeway.