Many CalFresh recipients could lose benefits starting June 1 due to new requirements

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Hundreds of thousands of Californians could be at risk of losing food assistance as new federal requirements take effect June 1, raising concerns among local leaders and food banks already struggling to meet growing demand.

Some CalFresh recipients will soon have updated work, school or community service requirements. Most adults will need to complete at least 80 hours per month to qualify for food assistance.

Officials say more than 660,000 people statewide may not meet those requirements, putting their access to food assistance in jeopardy within weeks.

"These cuts are coming at a time when families in Silicon Valley are already stretched beyond their limits. Seniors are already struggling to get by on fixed incomes. Silicon Valley, we all know, is one of the wealthiest regions in the world. But behind the prosperity is a dark reality," Sunnyvale Community Services Exec. Director Marie Bernard said.

California leaders are trying to get the word out about upcoming changes.

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South Bay Assemblymember Alex Lee held a meeting Wednesday with anti-hunger advocates from the Bay Area.

In Santa Clara County alone, about 55,000 residents could be affected by the changes, with thousands more across California facing similar risks.

State lawmakers, including Lee, have secured additional funding for food banks and service providers to help offset the expected increase in need. However, Lee said more support is necessary.

"California taxpayers have contributed tens of billions of dollars more than we receive from Washington, yet we're left holding the bill and bearing the harm. We must step up and face a direct federal tax on working families," Lee said.

Food banks say they are already operating at capacity and warn that the changes could further strain their resources.

MORE: New SNAP work requirements set to go into effect on Feb. 1, millions could lose benefits

"We are asking all of you to help us to make sure that we have the resources to feed those people who need our help. To help prevent homelessness and to help those who do become homeless," Tom Meyers with CSA Mountain View said.

"There is no research that actually shows a link between these types of work requirements and time limits and improved employment outcomes. They only serve to cut people off vital food assistance," said Jared Call, director of public policy and advocacy for the California Association of Food Banks.

San Mateo County is trying to help its residents get ahead of the changes. The Human Services Agency Outreach team has kicked off a series of special Saturday hours to help people apply for various state benefits and answer questions about upcoming changes.

The agency's office on 1500 Fashion Island Boulevard will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday and next.