Food Resources

Hungry? Let’s Change That.

Everyone deserves access to healthy, affordable meals. We’ve gathered local food resources to support students and their families.

From food pantries to community programs, you’ll find options here to make life a little easier while you focus on your education. If you need extra guidance or personalized support, our Student Services team is here to help.

For any additional questions, reach out to Steven Yancy at syancy@centralcoastcollege.edu.

Food Bank Monterey County

Medically Tailored Food Delivery for Medi-Cal Members in Monterey County

The food bank for Monterey County offers free weekly boxes of produce or groceries. The grocery box contains proteins, dairy, produce, and shelf-stable food and this box is composed of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Eligibility: Medi-cal members living in Monterey County with qualifying health conditions.

• Contact: For more information call (831) 708-6897
  • English: shernandez@food4hungry.org
  • Espanol: darellano@food4hungry.org

CalFresh

CalFresh (formerly known as the Food Stamp Program) helps eligible low-income residents by providing monthly funds to purchase groceries. Qualifying students can receive food assistance deposited on an EBT card, which can be used at grocery stores, participating farmers’ markets, and online, where accepted. In urgent situations, Expedited (same-day or within 3 days) benefits may be available if certain income and expense criteria are met.

CalFresh eligibility is based on factors like income, household size, and resources. If you’re struggling to afford food, you may qualify for CalFresh. We encourage you to check your eligibility and apply—the extra support can make a big difference.

For more information click here.

You can apply online HERE, by phone, or in person through your local DPSS office.

WIC – Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Program

WIC offers healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals for women, infants, and young children. This program helps families access essential nutrition during key stages of life.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey

Catholic Charities provides assistance with CalFresh applications, semiannual reporting, and recertification. Their team helps individuals navigate benefits to ensure continuous access to food support.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Farmers’ Market & EBT (Everyone’s Harvest + Market Match)

Students using CalFresh EBT can shop at participating farmers’ markets that accept EBT. When you spend $30 at Everyone’s Harvest Farmers’ Markets, you receive an additional $30 through the Market Match program—doubling your access to fresh produce.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

211 Monterey County

Text “FOOD” to 831-215-3342 to receive referral information for food distributions, meal programs, and other nutrition services in your area. Bilingual assistance is available to help students find support quickly.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals for individuals over 60 years of age. Services are available in both the Salinas area and the Peninsula for eligible seniors.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Double Up Food Bucks

Students enrolled in CalFresh can earn a 50% discount—up to $15 per day—on California-grown fruits and vegetables at participating grocery stores. This program helps make fresh produce more affordable.

To learn more, CLICK HERE.