The Market Match program, which doubles CalFresh benefits for fresh produce at California farmers markets, is at risk of ending in March 2027 unless the state budget is revised by June 15. - The program served 627,000 shoppers statewide in 2025, delivering nearly 50 million servings of produce.
- In Alameda County, over 100,000 CalFresh recipients could be affected, with 12,657 EBT transactions at Berkeley farmers markets in 2025. - Vendors report that 20% of their business comes from Market Match, and the program puts money directly into farmers' pockets.
- Advocates say every dollar spent has a three-to-one multiplier effect in local communities. The Save Market Match Coalition urges residents to contact officials before the June 15 budget deadline to preserve this critical food safety net.