# Basic Needs

**Source**: https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/calfresh
**Parent**: https://bsp.berkeley.edu/node/124/

## CalFresh Application Assistance

The BNC has a team of student staff and full-time staff to help connect students to CalFresh, a long time food resource. CalFresh is a federally funded program, also known as SNAP/EBT, that provides eligible students with up to $298 to purchase food. CalFresh benefits are loaded onto an EBT card which can be used at most major grocery stores, the Berkeley Student Food Collective, and select farmers markets.

## [Are You Eligible for CalFresh?](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/get-support/food/calfresh-assistance/calfresh-eligibility)

Check the CalFresh eligibility guidelines and [complete a CalFresh prescreener](https://basicneedsberkeley.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/56a3151b-04ba-43c7-bf15-ec195c44f7c8)

## [I’m Eligible and Would Like Help Applying](http://tinyurl.com/cfappointment)

The application takes around 45-60 minutes and you should receive your benefits within 30 days. We highly recommend applying with an experienced CalFresh Ambassador.

Students are encouraged to create an account on [BenefitsCal](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyArMk7PvjQ) and collect proper documents prior to their appointments.

## [I'm Eligible and Would Like to Apply on My Own](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/get-support/food/calfresh-assistance/apply-your-own)

Explore a step-by-step guide on how to apply, information regarding what verification documents will need to be provided with your application, information about the interview process and what to expect post application

## [I'm Not Eligible for CalFresh](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/community-resources)

Explore community resources

## [After Applying](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/get-support/food/calfresh-assistance/after-applying)

Learn about next steps and how to maintain CalFresh benefits

[## Book an Appointment](http://tinyurl.com/cfappointment)

[## Apply on Your Own](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/get-support/food/calfresh-assistance/apply-your-own)

[## CalFresh FAQs](https://basicneeds.berkeley.edu/faq/calfresh)

> CalFresh improved the quality of my college life tremendously. Once I received my EBT card, I stopped having to worry about how I’d afford my next meal, and could instead focus on how I would ace my next midterm.
>
> Anonymous Student, 2019