NOTE: This blog post was first published on Oct. 23, and last updated on Oct. 27, 2025.

November CalFresh benefits are delayed due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to Sonoma County.

According to the Sonoma County Human Services Department, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) directed states to pause November SNAP (CalFresh) benefits until federal funding becomes available. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has instructed all counties to comply with this directive.

• November CalFresh benefits are delayed.
• October CalFresh benefits are not impacted. Funds can continue to be used into the future, however, there is a chance that EBT cards may be temporarily frozen after November 1. Sonoma County Human Services Department will make the announcement if that becomes the case.
• Supplemental Nutrition Benefit (SNB) and Transitional Nutrition Benefit (TNB) are not impacted and will be issued as normal.
• CalWORKs benefits are not affected at this time.
• Clients do not need to reapply or take any action; benefits will automatically be issued when federal funding becomes available.
• CalFresh applications, Semi Annual Reports (SAR 7s), and recertifications will continue to be processed as usual. I encourage all recipients to keep their eligibility up to date.

The County is partnering closely with the Redwood Empire Food Bank to make food available to the community during this time.

• For immediate food assistance, visit Redwood Empire Food Bank’s website to locate a food distribution near you.
• Visit OpenDoorsSC.com to locate other community food resources.
• Dial 2-1-1 for referrals and community resources.
• View the FAQ document on the CDSS website regarding the shutdown and impacts to benefits: CalFresh Frequently Asked Questions

Market Match at Farmers Markets

At this time, participating farmers markets continue to accept CalFresh/EBT and offer Market Match. We will post any new information as it becomes available.

WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Continue

California WIC received additional federal funds from the USDA and remain fully operational through November 30, assuming no unexpected changes at the federal government level. All WIC authorized farmers can continue accepting WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).

The deadline for customers to use WIC and SFMNP is November 30.

WIC Cash Value Benefits for fruits and vegetables are available year-round, as long as funding is available.

For the most update to date information, visit https://myfamily.wic.ca.gov/Home/FederalBudget. For additional questions, call toll free (855) 942-7867. You may also contact the WIC Vendor Management Branch by email at WICFMNP@cdph.ca.gov.

Petaluma Bounty’s Food Resource Guide

Petaluma Bounty’s Food Resource Guide lists where you can get free or low-cost food in Petaluma. The Guide is available in English and Spanish.