Intro
Located on the northern edge of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz, California, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, redwood forests, and vibrant cultural scene. However, like many other cities in the United States, Santa Cruz also struggles with food insecurity, which affects a significant portion of its population. Fortunately, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as CalFresh in California, provides essential support to eligible residents, helping them access nutritious food. Here are five ways to use food stamps in Santa Cruz, CA.
Using Food Stamps at Local Farmers Markets
Santa Cruz is renowned for its bustling farmers markets, which offer an incredible array of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. Many of these markets welcome CalFresh participants, allowing them to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase healthy food. Some popular farmers markets in Santa Cruz include the Santa Cruz Farmers Market, the Felton Farmers Market, and the Live Oak Farmers Market.
Shopping at Local Grocery Stores
Most grocery stores in Santa Cruz accept CalFresh EBT cards, making it easy for participants to purchase food staples, fresh produce, and other essentials. Some popular grocery stores in the area include Safeway, Whole Foods Market, and New Leaf Community Markets. When shopping at these stores, CalFresh participants can use their EBT cards to buy a wide range of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and whole grains.
Purchasing Meals at Participating Restaurants
In addition to grocery stores and farmers markets, some restaurants in Santa Cruz also accept CalFresh EBT cards. This innovative program, known as the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), allows eligible CalFresh participants to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. This initiative helps ensure that vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and disabled, have access to nutritious meals. To find participating restaurants in Santa Cruz, CalFresh participants can visit the California Department of Social Services website.
Buying Food from Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs
Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs offer a unique opportunity for CalFresh participants to purchase fresh, locally grown produce directly from farmers. These programs typically involve a subscription-based model, where participants pay a regular fee to receive a weekly or bi-weekly box of fresh produce. Some popular CSA programs in Santa Cruz include the Santa Cruz Community Farmers Market CSA and the Live Earth Farm CSA. By purchasing food from these programs, CalFresh participants can support local agriculture while accessing healthy, nutritious food.
Using Food Stamps to Purchase Seeds and Plants
CalFresh participants can also use their EBT cards to purchase seeds and plants, enabling them to grow their own food. This innovative initiative, known as the "Seeds and Plants" program, allows participants to buy seeds, plants, and other gardening supplies at participating nurseries and gardening stores. Some popular nurseries in Santa Cruz include the Santa Cruz Nursery and the UCSC Farm and Garden. By growing their own food, CalFresh participants can enjoy fresh, nutritious produce while also saving money on grocery bills.
Gallery of Food Stamps in Santa Cruz, CA
Food Stamps in Santa Cruz, CA Image Gallery
By exploring these five ways to use food stamps in Santa Cruz, CA, eligible residents can access nutritious food, support local agriculture, and improve their overall well-being. If you're a CalFresh participant in Santa Cruz, we encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities and make the most of your benefits.