The California Department of Social Services announced Monday that individuals and families impacted by the Bobcat Fire may be eligible to receive food benefits as part of continuing disaster-recovery efforts.
A family of four with a monthly income up to $2,893 potentially can receive up to $646 in food benefits through the Disaster CalFresh program, which is available to those who lived or worked in an area affected by the 115,800-acre blaze between Sept. 6 and Oct. 5, according to the state agency.
The Bobcat Fire , which began on Sept. 6 in the Angeles National Forest, destroyed 171 structures, including 87 residences, and damaged 47 structures, including 28 residences.
Those impacted by the wildfire may be eligible for the benefits if their household experienced at least one of the following as a direct result of the blaze:
— at least one family member was not yet getting regular CalFresh food benefits;
— money was spent because of the wildfire or a related power outage;
— money was lost from work because of the wildfires; or
— money was spent because of damage to a home or business.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Disaster CalFresh program will be operated, for the first time, primarily by telephone. Los Angeles-area households may apply from Nov. 16-20 by dialing 877-597-4777.
In most cases, Disaster CalFresh food benefits — provided on an electronic benefits-transfer card — will be available within three days of the date of a qualifying interview, according to CDSS public affairs.
Further information is available at www.cdss.ca.gov/disastercalfresh1.