We are closely monitoring the potential lapse in funding for CalFresh/EBT benefits due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This interruption could begin as early as November 1, 2025.
School meal programs will NOT be affected. Charter Oak Unified will continue providing free, nutritious breakfast and lunch to all students enrolled in our schools. In addition, students participating in after-school programs will receive a nutritious snack (available at elementary sites) or supper.
We recognize that this potential gap in federal benefits may create significant challenges for some of our most vulnerable children and families. To help, we are providing information about resources available both within our district and throughout the community.
How COUSD is Providing Support
- Free Meals: Charter Oak USD offers free, nutritious meals to all students every school day, no applications or income requirements needed. Each student can enjoy one breakfast and one lunch at no cost to families.
- After-School Meals: Our schools participate in the CACFP After School Program, providing a nutritious snack (available at elementary sites) or supper to students enrolled in after-school activities.
- Second Chance Breakfasts: Our TK–8 schools offer a second chance breakfast so students who miss breakfast earlier in the day can still receive a morning meal.
- Share Tables: All schools have share tables where students may place unopened or uneaten food items they don’t plan to eat. These items are available for other students to enjoy during each meal period.
- Food Donations: Our Nutrition Services team donates all usable leftover food from school kitchens to the Student and Family Resource Center to help meet community needs.
- District Food Pantries: Our Student and Family Resource Centers, located on the Royal Oak and Sunflower Learning Center campuses, maintain food pantries stocked with non-perishable items for families — no questions asked.
- Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway: Charter Oak High School is hosting Assembly Blanca Rubio's 9th Annual Operation Gobble event from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Sunday, November 23. If you are in need of a Thanksgiving meal, you can drive-through and get free turkey and traditional sides.
Where Families Can Access Additional Support
If your family needs additional assistance, the following local food pantries and programs are available:
Community Resource Center
696 West Holt Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
(909) 620-1661 | Fridays, 2–4 PM
East San Gabriel Valley Coalition for the Homeless
15701 Hill Street, La Puente, CA 91744
(626) 333-7204 | Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–1:30 PM
Meals, pantry, and emergency assistance available
Shepherd’s Pantry
Free weekly food and clothing distribution, haircuts, and case management
- Glendora: 657 E. Arrow Hwy, Ste. J, Glendora, CA 91740 | (626) 852-7630
Wednesday & Thursday, 5–7 PM - Irwindale: 1418 Arrow Hwy, Irwindale, CA 91706 | (626) 305-0392
Tuesdays, 5–7 PM
Project 29:11 Food Bank
418 North 2nd Ave, Covina, CA 91723 | (626) 634-5319
Fridays, 1–4 PM | Bring valid I.D. and utility bill
project2911.net
Inland Valley Hope Partners
110 E. Third Street, San Dimas, CA 91773 | (909) 622-3806
Mon, Wed, Fri, 2–4 PM | Free 4–5 day food supply every 30 days
Food Security Program Info
New Song Church
945 W. Covina Blvd, San Dimas, CA 91773 | (909) 394-9488
Thursday, 7–8 PM | Saturday, 10–11:30 AM
Action Food Pantry
1016 Cypress St, Covina, CA 91722 | (626) 319-0554
4th Saturday of each month, 7 AM–1 PM
Additional foodbanks can be found at the California Association of Food Banks directory as well as through 211 LA County.
We are grateful to be part of a community that looks out for one another. If your family needs assistance, please reach out to our Student and Family Resource Center at (626) 967-6354; we’re here to help connect you with the support you need.