Information in this section – Food/Shelters; Food Bank’s: Food Distribution Resources; Homeless Prevention Programs (help with utility bills, rent, deposits).

Overview - There are resources available for individuals and families who are struggling to maintain basic needs like food, shelter and clothing. Like all resources in San Luis Obispo County, it is important to research and develop a plan to best access the resources that you or your family may need. Utilizing resources like food banks, shelters and homeless diversion programs are most effective when they are part of a plan to re-gain independence and stability.

El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is an Atascadero-based organization that provides shelter, showers meals, and case management. First Baptist Church – 6370 Atascadero Avenue, Atascadero, California.

• Serving North County
• Homeless Families
• Homeless Individuals
• Call: (805) 462-3663

 Maxine Lewis Shelter offers meals; showers; mail, phone and message services; information and referrals; specialized health screenings, and access to case management. – 750 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, CA.

• Serving South County
• Homeless families, individuals
• Call: (805) 781-3993

More than 50 million Americans struggled to supply food for themselves and their families in 2009; 17 million were children. In response to these growing numbers, food banks and social service agencies have boosted their efforts to ensure that families have access to food. In San Luis Obispo County, there are several options for those who need supplemental food supplies, including food banks, government agencies, and community and church organizations.

Comprehensive Listing of Food Resources click this Link.

CalFresh (Formerly Food Stamps)

 Available through the Department of Social Services, CalFresh provides eligible families and individuals with food purchasing assistance in the form of an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card. The program uses a credit card instead of stamps, and each month the card is automatically credited with new funds while enrolled. To enroll in the program, visit the Department of Social Services in your area. Expect the first visit to take about one hour to fill out a screening application and meet with n Employment Resource Specialist who will review your situation, discuss programs and qualifications, and schedule a follow-up appointment. The follow-up appointment will take between 1 and 2 hours. You will need to bring additional documents like proof of income, social security cards, etc, and be asked to watch a video that describes procedures and rules for participating.

The Food Bank Coalition of San Luis Obispo County

The Food Bank operates several direct food distribution programs throughout San Luis Obispo County. These programs feed hungry children, low-income seniors and individuals and families that don’t earn enough money to make ends meet here on the Central Coast. The Food Bank works with over 190 non-profit agency partners to distribute food to the needy throughout the county. In addition, the Food Bank Coalition also offers several programs, including: the Senior Brown Bag Program, the USDA Commodities Program for low income families, and the Harvest Bag Program. For more information, contact of Food Bank Coalition of SLO at (805) 238-4664.

Loaves & Fishes

Loaves & Fishes is a volunteer, church based organization that provides food bags, counseling, and some support services to the homeless and needy. The program offers free groceries once a week for families and individuals needing additional assistance with food. Contact Loaves & Fishes for more information. Paso Robles (805) 238-4742 -  Atascadero (805) 461-1504.

Senior Citizen Lunches/Meals

Provides free lunches/Meals and some delivery for senior citizens. Atascadero:(805) 466-2317, Paso Robles: (805) 238-4831, Santa Margarita: (805) 438-5854, Shandon: (805) 239-4131.

Assembly of God Food Pantry

The Assembly of God Food Pantry offers food to those in need each Thursday from 1 – 2pm. It is located at 6030 Del Rio Road in Atascadero.

Woman, Infants and Children (WIC)

Provides food coupons, supplies and support to low income woman from pregnancy to children 0 – 5 years old. Call (805) 781-5570.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provides help with emergency services (food, rent, utilities) – In Atascadero call (805) 466-7201 - Paso Robles (805) 238-9591.