California State University, San Bernardino has signed a groundbreaking data-sharing memorandum of understanding (MOU) with San Bernardino County, making the university the first in the California State University system to enter into such an agreement. The goal is to increase the accessibility of California’s CalFresh Program, the state’s name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or “SNAP.”

Along with CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales, attendees at the April 12 MOU signing included San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. and San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez. Representatives from the county’s Department of Health Services as well as other local municipal offices also attended.

The data-sharing entities comprise the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department and the San Bernardino County Research, Outcomes and Quality Support Division, along with CSUSB.

“Hungry students cannot learn,” stated Morales. “This is precisely why CSUSB participates in the CalFresh Program. In order to build student success, we must support student well-being. This data-sharing program aims to help us reach even more of our eligible students and then ensure individuals do not fall off our radar.”

Morales underscored that data confidentiality and security is a key part of the responsibilities of all parties to this MOU, which becomes effective on the date of signing and will expire on Dec. 18, 2028.

According to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), more than 181,000 college students in Riverside and San Bernardino counties might be facing hunger without the support of CalFresh.

CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales (left) signs the memorandum of understanding that will increase the accessibility of California’s CalFresh Program, the state’s name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or “SNAP.” Looking on ar San Bernardino County 5th District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., and San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez.
CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales (left) signs the memorandum of understanding that will increase the accessibility of California’s CalFresh Program, the state’s name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or “SNAP.” With him are San Bernardino County 5th District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., and San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez.

CSAC officials have recognized the Inland Empire as a regional model for tackling student hunger, particularly praising the efforts of institutions like Cal State San Bernardino and the San Bernardino Community College District. Their establishment of a data-sharing agreement with the county, aimed at simplifying students' access to CalFresh benefits, has the potential to be an effective strategy in addressing this critical issue.

The data shared will allow CSUSB to conduct outreach to students and also analyze the impact of CalFresh benefits upon student success. “We measure what we do with our initiatives,” added Morales. “It helps us improve what we are doing and holds us accountable.”

CalFresh’s website describes the program as “for people with low-income who meet federal income eligibility rules and want to add to their budget to put healthy and nutritious food on the table.”

More information on how to apply can be found on the CSUSB Basic Needs & Student Support webpage for CalFresh.