Palomar College is focusing on food assistance for students affected by the federal government shutdown, which has delayed CalFresh benefits for many across North San Diego County.
The San Marcos-based college’s Basic Needs program, which helps students facing food and housing insecurity, is temporarily increasing food allotments through the Anita and Stan Maag Food and Nutrition Center at the San Marcos campus.
Normally, students can receive up to 20 pounds of food per month. In November, that limit rises to 30 pounds per week, with additional allowances for dependents — up to 40 pounds for those with two or more children. If the shutdown continues, the extended limits will stay in place through December, according to a college news release.
“To support enrolled students who are registered with CalFresh and impacted by the shutdown, we are temporarily increasing food limits,” Riham Shenouda, Basic Needs Manager at Palomar College, said in the news release.
The Maag Center provides students with groceries, ready-to-eat meals, hygiene kits, and baby and period products. For those who can’t visit during normal hours, the Campus Care Locker program lets students order food and supplies online for pickup at secure lockers on the San Marcos campus or at the Escondido, Fallbrook or Rancho Bernardo education centers.
Other local colleges are also supporting students during the shutdown.
At California State University San Marcos, the ASI Cougar Pantry continues to offer free groceries, toiletries and meal vouchers to enrolled students. MiraCosta College’s campus pantries provide fresh produce, canned goods and nonperishables at both the Oceanside and San Elijo campuses. () ()
Palomar officials said their priority is helping students stay focused on their studies despite financial stress.
“The success of our students is our priority,” Nick Mata, assistant superintendent and vice president of student services, said in the college’s news release. “Removing obstacles so students can concentrate on completing their courses while also emphasizing their well-being is central to our mission.”
This report was written using artificial intelligence, then edited and fact-checked against source material. View our AI policy on the About Us page.
