There are many ways for people to meet the work requirements needed to keep their CalFresh benefits under new federal rules. CalFresh, also commonly referred to as SNAP, EBT, or food stamps, allows qualified volunteer hours to count toward meeting monthly work requirements. The County offers volunteer opportunities and partners with 211 San Diego through the WorkReady Hub to help people get connected.
Since June 1, 2026, more than 46,000 CalFresh customers have learned they now have new work requirements they must fulfill, to keep their food benefits.
Federal rules say that anyone between the ages of 18 and 64 who receives CalFresh, does not have a child under age 14 in the home, and does not qualify for an exemption must complete 80 hours each month of approved activities. These activities can include working, training, education or volunteering.
Volunteer Guidelines
Tracking volunteer hours is simple. People can download a verification form in English or Spanish and send to the County. They may also submit a signed and dated letter from the organization confirming their hours. Many kinds of volunteering count, including helping at a church or school.
The WorkReady Hub lists additional volunteer ideas that may meet the program requirements.
Examples include:
- HandsOn San Diego – volunteer at food banks, community clean-ups, and events
- Feeding San Diego – Spring Valley Library Food Distribution or Spring Valley Community Center Food Distribution.
- San Diego Food Bank – support local food programs
- Jewish Family Service and YMCA – serve communities in a variety of ways
The County also has volunteer opportunities:
- AmeriCorps Retired and Senior Volunteer Program – please email RSVP.HHSA@sdcounty.ca.gov for more information
- Parks and Recreation – submit an online form
- County Library – visit your local branch to inquire
- Animal Services – complete an online application
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – fill out the application online
Anyone with questions about whether a volunteer activity qualifies can call the County’s Access Customer Service Call Center, at 866-262-9881.
Volunteer hours may be combined with other approved activities, such as training or a job, to meet the full 80-hour work requirement.
