by Los Angeles, CA — As the federal government shutdown continues to disrupt critical assistance programs, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn has announced four large-scale food distribution events aimed at supporting residents affected by suspended CalFresh (SNAP) benefits.
County Responds to Shutdown with Emergency Food Aid
In an effort to ensure no one in Los Angeles County goes hungry, Hahn said the events will be held in collaboration with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, distributing free groceries to local residents.
The CalFresh program, known nationally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is federally funded but locally managed to help low-income families purchase nutritious food. With federal funding stalled due to the shutdown, local agencies have stepped up to fill the gap.
“These events are about making sure that our families, seniors, and workers don’t go hungry while Washington is in gridlock,” Hahn stated.
Food Distribution Event Schedule and Locations
Residents can attend any of the following four free food distribution events — no eligibility requirements are needed, and food will be distributed while supplies last:
- Saturday, Nov. 8 (9 a.m.–noon): Pico Rivera Sports Arena
- Wednesday, Nov. 12 (9 a.m.–noon): Los Angeles Harbor College
- Friday, Nov. 14 (9 a.m.–noon): Long Beach City College Pacific Coast Campus
- Wednesday, Nov. 26 (9 a.m.–noon): Hawaiian Gardens Fedde Sports Complex
Hahn emphasized that these locations were strategically chosen to reach diverse communities across the county.
Federal SNAP Funding Uncertainty
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) previously said it would not use SNAP contingency funds beyond Friday if the shutdown continued. However, in a dramatic turn, two federal judges ordered the Trump administration to continue SNAP funding, according to the Associated Press.
This ruling offers temporary relief for the one in eight Americans who rely on SNAP to buy groceries. Still, local officials warn that if the shutdown drags on, additional aid efforts may be necessary.
Supporting Los Angeles Families in Crisis
Hahn’s office confirmed that county agencies and community partners are coordinating additional relief plans if the federal deadlock persists. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank also urged residents to check its website for updates on future food drives and volunteer opportunities.
What do you think about L.A. County’s response to the shutdown? Should more local governments step up like this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
