Gov. Gavin Newsom has activated the California National Guard and California Volunteers to support food banks across the state, responding to potential delays in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Approximately 5.5 million Californians rely on SNAP benefits, and the federal shutdown has raised concerns about interruptions in food assistance for families and individuals. To address this, Newsom is also fast-tracking up to $80 million in state funds to ensure food banks remain stocked and operational across nearly every county.
The National Guard will focus exclusively on humanitarian efforts, including food distribution and logistical support, without any law enforcement duties. Similar deployments during the COVID-19 pandemic helped deliver more than 800 million meals statewide, demonstrating the Guard’s capacity to assist in emergencies.
“This is serious, this is urgent — and requires immediate action,” Newsom said. He criticized the federal government’s inaction, stating, “Trump’s failure isn’t abstract — it’s literally taking food out of people’s mouths.”
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom underscored California’s commitment to residents, saying, “California is taking action to support our families by deploying California’s National Guard and California Volunteers to strengthen food distribution and invest $80 million to keep food banks stocked.”
Major General Matthew P. Beevers of the California Military Department expressed pride in the National Guard’s involvement, noting, “We are honored to serve our communities once again.”
The deployment will focus on immediate support for food banks and vulnerable populations while the state coordinates with local agencies to address gaps in service caused by the federal shutdown. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to contact their local food banks or visit www.calfoodbanks.org to find resources.
Newsom emphasized that the state remains committed to ensuring no Californian goes hungry during this federal funding lapse, signaling a proactive approach to protecting vulnerable communities while federal operations remain stalled.
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By: Bo Tefu, California Black Media
