CR Launches Emergency Food Drive as Federal Shutdown Threatens CalFresh Benefits

Published on Oct 30 2025

State and federal agencies have announced that if the federal government does not reopen or take action to fund benefits by October 23, 2025, CalFresh recipients could see delays in their November 2025 benefits. For many College of the Redwoods students, CalFresh is a vital resource that helps ensure regular access to nutritious meals. Based on CR’s financial aid data, as many as one in three CR students (approximately 33%) rely on CalFresh benefits. A disruption in these payments would pose a serious challenge to student health, well-being, and academic success.

To help mitigate the effects of a potential interruption, CR’s Basic Needs Center has expanded its food services by increasing pantry access, adding more daily meal options, extending after-hours availability, and organizing an emergency food drive to ensure students have consistent access to nutritious meals during the shutdown. The College is also working closely with the CR Foundation to coordinate community donations and support.

“Hunger does not recognize political parties,” said Dr. Keith Flamer, President of College of the Redwoods. “Our focus is on making sure every student has access to food and the support they need to continue their education, no matter what is happening at the federal level.”

“We know this uncertainty around CalFresh benefits is stressful for our students, and we want them to know they’re not alone,” said Stephanie Freyermuth, who is coordinating the food drive with the Basic Needs Center and the CR Foundation. “The College of the Redwoods Basic Needs Center is here to help and will continue to modify our services to meet student need.”

While CalFresh benefits may be delayed, the Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed that direct cash aid (TANF) is not expected to be impacted and will continue through November without interruption.

Community members who wish to help can donate nonperishable food items at several locations: CR’s Eureka, Del Norte, or Hoopa campuses, or at the downtown Eureka location at 527 D Street. Donations can also be made at the last home football game on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Redwood Bowl (Cal Poly Humboldt Campus), or during the Tregs Basketball Tournament on December 5–6, 2025, in the College of the Redwoods Gymnasium.

Those wishing to contribute financially can donate online through the CR Basic Needs Center or mail a check to the College of the Redwoods Foundation, 527 D Street, Eureka, CA 95501, noting that the donation should be used for the Basic Needs Center.

In addition to campus resources, CR encourages students and community members to utilize countywide food assistance programs, which remain available in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties.