GALT, CA (MPG) - As the federal government shutdown continues, the City of Galt and local school districts are sharing information to help residents find food assistance through local community programs.

On Oct. 31, the city posted a list of local foodpantries and programs to help those impacted by the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding, also known as CalFresh.

“The federal government remains shut down, and no new funding has been authorized for SNAP (CalFresh) benefits beyond Oct. 31,” the city’s post read. “Over 3,000 households in Galt will be impacted by this shutdown. If you or someone you know needs assistance, these local resources are available in our community.”

Local school district officials have reminded families that all students continue to receive free breakfast and lunch five days a week on school days, ensuring children have reliable meals despite the uncertainty caused by the federal shutdown.

Food Banks and Distributions

Among the local resources is the Sunshine Food Pantry & Resource Center, Inc., which operates out of Galt United Methodist Church at 571 C St. The pantry is open the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 8 to 11 a.m. Visitors must present a valid photo identification and bring their own bags, boxes or carts. More information is available at sunshinefoodpantrygalt.org.

Another local option, South County Services, provides emergency food, transportation and utility assistance to Galt residents. The organization is available to connect with at the Galt Flea Market Office, 905 Melody Lane, on Thursdays from 1 to 5 p.m. Those seeking services must provide a valid photo ID, proof of income and proof of address. For more information, call 209-745-9174 or visit southcountyservice.com.

For seniors ages 60 and above, Sacramento County’s Meals on Wheels offers weekday meals at the Community Café inside the Chabolla Community Center, 600 Chabolla Ave. Service runs Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required before attending. Details are available at mowsac.org.

Real Life Church, located at 550 Industrial Drive, hosts food distribution events on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 5 to 6 p.m. For details, call 209-730-6354.

County Services and Resources

For those seeking additional food options, the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services offers an online “Food Finder” tool that locates pantries and distribution sites by ZIP code. It is available at sacramentofoodbank.org/find-food.

To be connected to food, housing and other local assistance through country resources, residents can also call Sacramento 2-1-1 at 2-1-1, 916-498-1000 or 844-546-1464 (toll-free). 

Stay informed about CalFresh benefits and view frequently asked questions on how the government shutdown is impacting Sacramento County residents at ha.saccounty.gov. 

Pass It Forward

Residents looking to assist others can donate directly to the Sunshine Food Pantry & Resource Center to support food purchases. Donation information is available at sunshinefoodpantrygalt.org/donate-here.