Important Update Regarding November CalFresh Benefits
As the federal government shutdown did not end on Oct. 23, 2025, November CalFresh Food benefits will be temporarily delayed statewide. This delay affects only the timing of November benefit payments - not eligibility or enrollment.
When the federal government reopens, CalFresh Food benefits will resume automatically. Any delayed November benefits will be issued retroactively to students' EBT CalFresh cards. No one will permanently lose their benefits due to the shutdown.
Students should continue to apply for or recertify their CalFresh benefits. County Department of Social Services offices are still processing applications, expedited requests, and renewals.
Available Resources for Stan State Students
Warrior Food Pantry
Located in both Turlock and Stockton. The Warrior Food Pantry offers food and hygiene products to students at no cost to students. Please check out the Basic Needs website (link in bio) for current schedule and location of both pantries.
Monthly Food Box Distribution
On Wednesday, Nov. 5 and Thursday, Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Stan State partners with the United Samaritans Foundation and the California Faculty Association to provide students a box of groceries. Located at the University Circle in Turlock, boxes are available while supplies last.
Community Food Resources
The Basic Needs website includes a list of food resources throughout Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Merced, and Tuolumne counties.
Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance, we are here to support you. Email: basicneeds@csustan.edu
Learn how to donate to the Warrior Food Pantry
CalFresh is a nutrition assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families buy the food they need to stay healthy. CalFresh recipients receive benefits that are loaded electronically, via personal Golden State Advantage electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards. These cards look like an ordinary debit card and are used to buy groceries at participating grocery stores, discount chains, farmer’s markets, and neighborhood stores.
Why should I apply for CalFresh?
CalFresh can help stretch your food spending dollars if you are on a very limited income and finding it difficult to afford the nutritious food you need. It also won’t affect your existing financial aid and you don’t need your parent's tax return information to apply.
Need help with your application?
Meet with one of our Basic Needs team members! They can help determine if you are eligible to receive CalFresh benefits and guide you through the application process. Appointments available in-person or remote on both our Stockton and Turlock campuses.
You can also complete a pre-screening form and our team can reach out to you.
Updated: October 30, 2025