Food Scarcity/Lower
Socioeconomic
Students
Sonoma State values diversity and hopes to provide all of their students a comfortable, safe, and healthy environment. We understand that the basic needs of our students must be met in order for our students to succeed in their academics and in their personal lives. We’ve compiled a list of resources that provide food security, financial security, and assistance during emergencies. These resources have been made available by SSU, Sonoma County, and the CSU system.
On Campus and Community resources
CalFresh
CalFresh is California’s food stamp program
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Apply to get up to $204 a month per household member on an EBT card
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Application Steps
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Submit an application online at https://www.getcalfresh.org/en/apply (it takes about 10 minutes to complete).
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Submit proof of your situation (documentation may be paystubs, rent receipts, etc.)
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Do a phone interview with a county worker. This may take between 30-60 minutes.
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Please do not let these steps discourage you from applying! Your situation is valid and food insecurity is something anyone can experience at any point in their life. Here’s a wonderful statement listed in the Feeding America website:
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​“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.[2] It is important to know that though hunger and food insecurity are closely related, they are distinct concepts. Hunger refers to a personal, physical sensation of discomfort, while food insecurity refers to a lack of available financial resources for food at the household level.”
Helpful Online Resources
ssubasicneeds on instagram or flow.page/ssubasicneeds (website link)
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This account is constantly being updated with resources, the Basic Needs initiative works directly with CalFresh
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It includes, but not limited to: food security, housing, mental health, and other resources regarding the safety and well-being of students.
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This account is ran by SSU