Budget cuts threaten California program that doubles food dollars for needy

California's Market Match program, which doubles CalFresh benefits at farmers markets, faces an uncertain future as state funding runs out and federal cuts loom. - Market Match served over 627,000 low-income shoppers in 2025, providing 45 million servings of fresh produce.

- The program's $35 million in state funding over three years is not renewed in Gov. Newsom's proposed budget, with funds exhausted by March 2027.

- Assemblymember Damon Connolly and Sen. Josh Becker propose permanent state funding starting at $20 million per year, rising to $50 million.

- Federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid threaten up to 3 million Californians' food assistance, making state support critical. Advocates argue the program is essential for health and local farmers, but its future depends on legislative action.