Feeding San Diego holds emergency food distribution as CalFresh benefits end

Feeding San Diego Hosts Emergency Food Distribution

Nearly one thousand families received essential food supplies during Feeding San Diego's emergency food distribution held at their Sorrento Valley headquarters. The event took place on Saturday, coinciding with the termination of SNAP benefits for millions amid the ongoing government shutdown.

According to the organization, around 400,000 residents in San Diego County rely on SNAP assistance. Many attendees were furloughed federal workers who have been without pay since the shutdown began.

“Because we shouldn't have to be out here, we have jobs,” said Precious Williams, a government pharmacy technician with 23 years of service. “We got one paycheck, maybe half around the start of the month, and haven’t received anything since.”

For Williams, it was the first time visiting a food bank. She acknowledged the stigma that can surround seeking such help and encouraged others in need to overcome it.

“They're here to help you, there's no shame in it. I'm here to put food on my table and I'm not ashamed of doing that,” said Williams.

Another attendee, Carlos Leyva, also came to a food bank for the first time, bringing along his two-year-old son in search of support.

Author’s Summary

During a government shutdown that cut off SNAP benefits, Feeding San Diego helped nearly a thousand families by providing food to struggling workers and residents.

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NBC 7 San Diego NBC 7 San Diego — 2025-11-03

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