Read the full article by Macy Yang at Hmong Daily News and Sacramento News & Review
Mai C. doesn’t recall exactly when she received a text message from Sacramento County notifying her that her CalFresh benefits will stop in November. The message was in English — a language she can read and understand but with some limitations.
She said the same message also appeared in the app she uses to check her CalFresh and cash aid balances.
Mai C., who requested anonymity out of fear of repercussions and retaliation, asked that her full name not be used. The interview was conducted in Hmong, her native language, to ensure her full understanding.
When asked what she understood about the federal shutdown, Mai C. said in-language, “They can’t agree. They don’t want to give money to help Medi-Cal, so they are going to stop giving money to help people. They are going to stop all WIC, food stamps and cash assistance.”