If you’re like me, you’re making last-minute tweaks to your kid’s Halloween costume right now (or, let’s be honest, your own costume). 

But tomorrow will be far scarier than tonight.

On Saturday, November 1, nearly 400,000 San Diegans will lose access to food assistance because Republican leaders in Washington have shut down the government and refused to extend vital healthcare and nutrition programs.

That means families who rely on CalFresh (SNAP) to buy groceries won’t see their benefits reloaded this weekend.

It didn’t have to be this way.

President Trump has the power to release contingency funds to keep SNAP running — and so far, he’s chosen not to. But as of this afternoon, a federal court ruling may soon require the administration to release those funds.

We’re monitoring developments closely — because for hundreds of thousands of San Diegans, every hour matters.

While Republicans in Washington play politics, our community is stepping up to help our neighbors.

Here’s info on how you can help local food banks like the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and Feeding San Diego Food Bank step up to meet this need.

(TLDR: they need volunteers, so sign up to help here or here!)

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

But first: know that these food banks are fully operational and ready to support anyone affected — whether it be you, a schoolmate, a neighbor, or a coworker. 

• Find food fast: Use the San Diego Food Bank’s Food Locator Map or Feeding San Diego’s Find Food Map to locate a nearby distribution site.
  
  
• Apply for CalFresh: Applications are still being accepted. Benefits will be released once the government shutdown ends.
  
  
• Need help applying? Food banks can guide you through every step.

If You Can Help — Now’s the Time

As the largest hunger-relief organizations in San Diego County, the San Diego Food Bank and Feeding San Diego remain fully operational and committed to ensuring access to food during this time of uncertainty. 

These institutions are built for moments like this — but they still need our help to manage this crisis. 

Here’s how to make a difference right now:

• Host a food drive: Turn your group chat, office team, friends, neighbors or classmates into a virtual food drive or a fundraiser — and start a new lifeline for families in need.
  
  
• Volunteer (more info on this below!): Step into the warehouse and help move food where it’s needed most. It’s easy: click here to sign up for a shift with the San Diego Food Bank or here for a shift with Feeding San Diego. 

Volunteers Needed — No Experience Required

When you volunteer, you’re doing more than packing boxes — you’re feeding your neighbors.

Every week, volunteers help process tens of thousands of pounds of food — and right now, that work has never mattered more.

What to expect when volunteering:

• You’ll sort and bag donated food, check expiration dates, inspect produce, prep food for mobile pantries, and assemble food packs for seniors, kids, and families.
  
  
• You’ll see firsthand how your time turns into real meals for San Diego families.

Before You arrive:

• Register in advance: Make sure to schedule your shift online.
  
  
• Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothes.
  
  
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early for check-in and orientation.
  
  
• Ages: 16+ can volunteer independently; younger teens and kids can join with an adult registered for the same shift.
  
  
• Groups welcome: Families, companies, corporate teams, schools, community groups and clubs can all sign up to volunteer together.

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER TODAY:

👉sandiegofoodbank.org/volunteer

👉feedingsandiego.org/get-involved/volunteer

Every shift matters. Every box packed, every dollar donated, every hour given — it all adds up to hope.

Let’s show how San Diego shows up for each other when Republicans in Congress walk away.