For Immediate Release
June 1, 2026
Email: [email protected] 

Replacement Benefits Available for CalFresh Customers Impacted by Recent Wildfires and Power Outages

Affected CalFresh customers must report food loss by June 8

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. — CalFresh customers who lost food purchased with benefits due to recent wildfires and power outages have until June 8 to report the loss and request replacement benefits.

State officials estimate that 26,029 CalFresh households may have lost food as a result of the Bain, Sandy and Verona fires. The Bain and Verona fires in Riverside County both started on May 19, while the Sandy Fire ignited on May 18 in Ventura County. All three fires spread rapidly, prompting thousands of evacuations.

Affected households in Riverside County can report food loss and request replacement CalFresh benefits by visiting BenefitsCal.com, contacting their nearest Self-Sufficiency office, attending an outreach event, or calling 1-877-410-8827.

“These fires have caused many households to experience unexpected hardships, and we want our customers to know we are here to help,” said Allison Gonzalez, Assistant Director of the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), who oversees the Self-Sufficiency Division. “If you were impacted by one of these fires, please contact us by June 8 to request replacement benefits.”

CalFresh is California’s largest food assistance program and provides monthly benefits through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that can be used to purchase food online and in person at stores, supermarkets, farmers markets and, in some cases, restaurants.

Residents who need food assistance but are not currently enrolled in CalFresh are encouraged to apply online at BenefitsCal.com, by calling 1-877-410-8827, or by visiting their nearest Self-Sufficiency office or community event.