The CalFresh Outreach Center (CFOC) solicited feedback from students who had applied for CalFresh, offering incentives to encourage student participation.
Of the 520 students who applied for CalFresh with assistance from the CalFresh Outreach Center (CFOC), 46 participated in our end-of-year survey.
Cal State LA students were motivated to access CalFresh Outreach Center (CFOC) services even though the resource is historically stigmatized. A student who applied and was approved for CalFresh benefits expressed: "It gives me the opportunity to work less hours and still have enough food to keep a well-balanced lifestyle. I am able to eat well and stay focused on school."
Applying for a program like CalFresh can be complex. Students gain skills to navigate administrative barriers when accessing government programs.
A majority of the survey respondents found assistance from a CalFresh Advocate to be helpful and the average rating for our communication efforts was 4.76 out of 5. Students felt prepared to interact with their local county office after being advised by the CFOC team. All 46 respondents would recommend CFOC services to another Cal State LA student.
Some of the students who participated in our survey were not aware of the various programs and services we offer such as the weekly farmers market and semi-annual/recertification reporting assistance. The CFOC looks forward to increasing our communication efforts through social media by developing a Communications Specialist position for the next academic year.