**BARSTOW, Calif. (KABC)** – Millions of people who rely on food assistance are facing the possibility of going without benefits next month due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. As a result, local leaders are scrambling to mitigate the potential fallout.
The Barstow Police Department announced on Facebook that it will be increasing patrols around grocery stores, convenience stores, and shopping centers. The department emphasized that this is not in response to any specific incident but is a preventive measure aimed at maintaining public safety, deterring theft, and reassuring the community that law enforcement remains present and ready to assist.
Across Southern California, officials are mobilizing to provide support to those affected. Approximately 1.5 million families in Los Angeles—and more than 5 million people statewide—receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California. If the shutdown continues, these benefits could run out as early as November 1.
In response to the looming delay, L.A. Care Health Plan, the nation’s largest publicly operated health plan, announced on Tuesday that it will allocate $5.4 million to help feed impacted families. Of this amount, $5 million is designated for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, and Food Forward. This funding is expected to assist between 10,000 and 15,000 households weekly throughout November.
An additional $400,000 will support broader food security initiatives and enhance food distribution efforts throughout the county.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles County officials have allocated $10 million to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to increase its purchasing power and establish pop-up and drive-through distribution sites. These efforts will supplement the existing network of 940 food pantries throughout the region.
Both the County Departments of Public Social Services and Children and Family Services have also contributed $2 million each to strengthen food assistance programs.
Individuals experiencing food insecurity are encouraged to seek resources by visiting online platforms or by calling 211.
President Trump recently indicated that his administration may work toward a solution to fund SNAP benefits during the shutdown, though no specific details have been provided.
*City News Service contributed to this report.*
https://abc7.com/post/barstow-police-step-patrols-grocery-stores-millions-set-lose-snap-benefits/18085283/
