Story by: Trevor McCormick, Staff Writer
Photo by: Trevor McCormick, Staff Writer
Recent federal cuts to food aid have begun to ripple across college campuses nationwide, and Cypress College is no exception. Programs like CalFresh are facing major strains as funding has been delayed due to the government shutdown.
CalFresh, California’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides food assistance to low-income households.
According to CalMatters, more than 5.5 million people in California could be affected by the cuts. This will likely lead to longer lines at local food banks and pantries and fewer healthy options for residents across the state.
A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling gave the federal government permission to limit SNAP payments while the appeals continue, further heightening uncertainty about food security.
On campus, the Charger Food Pantry continues to serve those in need. It has been over a year since the pantry’s expansion and it is still facing heavy and growing demand.
In March 2024, the food pantry coordinator, Timmy Tran, said shelf space remains a major challenge for the pantry, and that there is always a need for more food and storage. That need has only grown as food costs continue to rise.
If CalFresh continues to be halted, more students will skip cafeteria meals and grocery shopping in favor of relying on the pantry, which already remains open during holidays to meet student demands.
Despite the efforts of pantry staff, it is clear that the struggle to make up for the lack of state aid may become an even greater burden if it goes on any longer.
As government officials work to restore CalFresh and stabilize food aid for colleges and communities across California, the path ahead remains uncertain for students and families alike.
