Fwd: Reminder: Zoning Worksession TOMORROW & Food Assistance Update

0 views
Skip to first unread message

Diane Tokugawa

unread,
Nov 5, 2025, 7:04:49 PMNov 5
to LOCCNA
diane

Begin forwarded message:

Subject: Reminder: Zoning Worksession TOMORROW & Food Assistance Update
Date: November 5, 2025 at 11:13:03 AM PST

 
Hello Diane,

This update includes important information regarding CalFresh, ways to support community organizations working to address food insecurity, and a reminder about TOMORROW’s worksession on the Corridors Zoning Update.

As the government shutdown continues, there is much uncertainty regarding access to CalFresh food assistance, which is funded by the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Some 5 million Californians were slated to lose CalFresh food assistance, barring congressional action or court intervention. While the situation is evolving, we have a new update. 

The federal government has indicated it will fund 50% of SNAP benefits payments for the month of November, though the arrival of those funds onto recipients’ Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards will be significantly delayed – it’s likely no one in California will receive SNAP benefits in November.

My colleague, Councilmember Rashi Kesarwani, took the time to prepare an excellent newsletter about accessing food resources during the government shutdown. I have included information from her office, as well as ways to donate and support organizations helping our community during this time. 

Lastly, I just want to state a simple and obvious truth, just to make sure we don’t lose sight of the basic morality of the situation: everybody has the right to eat. This is a core value of our community and what’s happening is both a cause for outrage and a call to action at the same time. If you are in a position to help those experiencing food insecurity, please do what you can. If you are worried about going hungry, please know that this community cares about you and will do everything we can to help you. We are all in this together and we’re going to get through this together.

If you are able, I encourage you to support local organizations helping our neighbors in need during this shutdown. You can make a direct impact by donating through the links below: 




For more information, please visit the state's CalFresh FAQ webpage. The California Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which provides food benefits to families with pregnancies and children under 5, is not impacted at this time and benefits will continue for WIC recipients.

Berkeleyside has prepared a list of resources for those in need of food assistance and those wishing to help.

The City's Health, Housing and Community Services Department has also prepared a list of resources that I am sharing below.

Finally, the District 1 office reached out to Berkeley Food Network to find out what we can do to support this vital community food pantry and distribution site. Here is how you can help:

  • Donations: Berkeley Food Network needs support to ensure they are here for our community. Contributions go directly to sourcing food, recruiting volunteers, and operating programs. To make a gift, please go HERE.

  • Corporate Sponsorships & Contributions: Berkeley Food Network is looking to expand its relationships with mission-oriented businesses seeking to support the community during this challenging time. This can come in the form of grants, sponsorships, or even social media awareness.

  • In-Kind & Food Donations: Berkeley Food Network is sourcing food from local businesses, producers and community members. To make a food donation, please e-mail devel...@berkeleyfoodnetwork.org.

  • Volunteer: Berkeley Food Network is always looking for volunteers to help operate its food pantries, deliver groceries to community members, and help raise awareness at local events. To become a volunteer, go HERE.

Click on the PDF below for more information. 
Corridors Zoning Worksession
Alongside these resources, I would also like to remind you of TOMORROW’s worksession regarding the Corridors Zoning Update, which includes Solano Avenue and North Shattuck. This worksession will begin at 6:00 PM in the School District Board Room (1231 Addison Street, Berkeley, CA 94702). You can also participate via Zoom. To request to speak, use the “raise hand” function in Zoom when promoted to. This worksession is an opportunity to hear from staff and give feedback. While no formal action will be taken, the City Council will have an opportunity to make public comments, ask questions, and learn more about the results of the citywide survey conducted by the Planning Department. You can view the agenda here.

Warmly,
Shoshana O'Keefe | 1320 Spruce St. | Berkeley, CA 94709 US
Constant Contact

Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages