FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
28 October 2025
Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov
Rep. Barragán Alerts Californians on How Republicans’ Shutdown Will Run Out SNAP Funds
San Pedro, C.A. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) held a press conference at the Toberman Neighborhood Center to sound the alarm for Californians on SNAP food assistance funds running out at the end of the week, due to Donald Trump and Republicans’ refusal to negotiate with Democrats and reopen the government. Millions of Americans across the country live paycheck to paycheck and rely on SNAP benefits for food — including children, veterans, and seniors. The stop in funding follows drastic cuts to SNAP that were part of Republicans’ Big Ugly Law earlier this year. The Congresswoman was joined by leaders from the Toberman Neighborhood Center and L.A. Regional Food Bank to address this critical issue.
“No American should have to worry about whether they can afford their next meal,” said Rep. Barragán. “SNAP benefits, known as CalFresh in California, are not a hand out — they’re a lifeline that help hardworking Americans feed their families. That’s why Democrats will continue to speak up, speak out, and share our constituents’ stories on how Republicans’ shutdown is cutting off their access to critical services. We will not stand by as Americans are pushed into hunger and extensive health care costs and furloughs. Republicans have been on vacation for almost a month now — it’s time they get back to work with Democrats and find a solution to reopen the government.”
“Every day at Toberman Neighborhood Center, we see parents skipping meals so their children can eat and seniors stretching what little they have just to survive. When programs like SNAP are delayed or held back, it’s not numbers on a page; it’s families in crisis. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Barragán for standing with our community and fighting to protect the lifelines that keep food on the table. Her leadership reminds us that compassion and action must go hand in hand if we are to truly end hunger,” said Dr. Lupe Rivera, CEO of Toberman Neighborhood Center.
“The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is proud to partner with 600 partner agencies throughout Los Angeles County, like the Toberman Neighborhood Center, to serve families and individuals seeking food assistance. With the help of these partners, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is able to provide critical food assistance during normal times, and scale our response during emergencies such as the upcoming disruption to CalFresh benefits,” said Michael Flood, President and CEO of Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
SNAP is a vital federal program that provides food assistance to support low-income individuals and families. Over 41 million Americans and over 5 million Californians rely on SNAP to make ends meet.
For the recording and photos from the press conference, click HERE.
###