Thursday, November 6, 2025

Pasadena Food Banks Step Up as CalFresh and SNAP Benefits Halt Amid Federal Shutdown

By ANDRÈ COLEMAN, Managing Editor

As the federal shutdown continues with no end in sight, council members are using their newsletters to keep constituents informed on where they can go to receive assistance.

More than 17,000 local residents receive CalFresh and SNAP benefits. On Tuesday, President Trump said he would not honor a court order to dole out some benefits.

Pasadena’s food banks are stepping in to fill the gap for families who suddenly find themselves without crucial assistance.

Mayor Victor Gordo and Councilmember Justin Jones have led a citywide response effort, coordinating with the food banks and community organizations to expand emergency food distribution.

“Delayed and reduced food assistance caused by the Federal Government Shutdown continues to impact Pasadena families, who were already feeling the squeeze from rising costs,” Jones said. “I am deeply thankful for the compassion and hard work of my neighbors, local faith groups, and nonprofits who step up every day to try and bring some relief.

“When we come together like this, we remind each other that Pasadena’s strength is in how we care for each other. But the work continues, I encourage every resident to continue giving their time, resources or both where and how they can. That is also why the City has launched a webpage to connect residents with foodbanks, meal sites, and ways to volunteer or donate.”

Vice Mayor Jess Rivas put out a call for volunteers at two food banks in a recent newsletter.

“These days are confusing and daunting,” said Councilmember Rick Cole in a message to constituents, noting that there are “no clear answers from day to day” for residents who rely on that support.

Local organizations — including Friends In Deed, Pasadena Nazarene Church, Lake Avenue Church, The Salvation Army Pasadena Corps, First AME Church, Foothill Unity Center, and St. Vincent de Paul at St. Andrew Church — are expanding services to meet rising demand for groceries and hot meals.

“Last week, we served 848 households, shattering any previous record of people coming through our doors,” said Joshua Levine Grater. “And while that in and of itself is mind-boggling, another number also got our attention: 65 first time people. These folks expressed fear about the cancellation of their SNAP benefits, so they were coming to ‘stock-up.’ We can only imagine that those numbers will increase now that the benefits are fully cut. And even with the announcement that the administration will release some contingency funds, those will only cover benefits for 50% of people that usually receive them.”

City officials are encouraging residents to donate or volunteer at local pantries.

City officials are urging residents in need to visit one of the following sites for immediate help:

• Friends In Deed Pantry, 444 E. Washington Blvd. — Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed 1 to 2 p.m. for lunch)
• Pasadena Nazarene Church Food Pantry, 350 S. Oak Ave. — Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Lake Avenue Church Food Bank, 393 N. Lake Ave. — Fridays, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
• Salvation Army Pasadena Corps, 960 E. Walnut St. — Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• AIDS Service Center (HIV Food Bank), 909 E. Walnut St. — Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (pre-registration required)
• First AME Church Food Pantry, 1700 N. Raymond Ave. — Thursdays, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Foothill Unity Center, 191 N. Oak Ave. — Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (appointments required)
• St. Vincent de Paul Society – St. Andrew Church, 311 N. Raymond Ave. — Wednesdays, 9 to 11 a.m.