General Assistance or General Relief

The General Assistance or General Relief (GA/GR) Program is designed to provide relief and support to indigent adults who are not supported by their own means, other public funds, or assistance programs. Each county's GA/GR program is established and funded (100 percent) by its own Board of Supervisors. As the state is not involved in this program, benefits, payment levels, and eligibility requirements will vary among each of California's 58 counties. For further information or to apply for the GA/GR Program, contact your county social services agency.

Many recipients of GA/GR are also eligible to participate in the CalFresh Program. The CalFresh Program is designed to raise the level of nutrition among low-income households. You can find additional information on the CalFresh Program here. To apply for GA/GR and/or CalFresh benefits, contact your county social services agency.