Pierce College Bookstore Now Accepts EBT, Supporting Student Food Access On Campus

Pierce College Bookstore Now Accepts EBT, Supporting Student Food Access On Campus

Pierce College Bookstore now accepts EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards for eligible food purchases, making it easier than ever for students to access nutritious pantry and frozen food options right on campus.

Students who receive CalFresh benefits can now use their EBT cards at the campus bookstore to purchase qualifying grocery items, including non-perishable pantry items, frozen foods, canned goods and snacks and drinks that are EBT-eligible under state guidelines.

While hot prepared foods are not currently eligible for purchase using EBT, Pierce is actively working on expanding its food access offerings, including efforts to become approved for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in the future. If approved, this would allow eligible EBT users, such as students who are experiencing homelessness, seniors, or those with disabilities, to purchase hot and ready-to-eat meals on campus.

The addition of EBT acceptance at the bookstore builds upon programs like Brahma Pantry, Brahma Fresh, and CalFresh enrollment support already available through Pierce’s Basic Needs Center. It also complements districtwide efforts such as LACC Cares’ Fresh Success program, which helps students apply for CalFresh and understand how to use their benefits to support academic success. This important step aligns with the college’s broader commitment to combat food insecurity and support students' basic needs.

EBT, or Electronic Benefit Transfer, is the system used across California for distributing public assistance benefits, including CalFresh (formerly food stamps), CalWORKs, and other nutrition and cash assistance programs. According to the California Department of Social Services, EBT helps ensure that recipients can redeem their benefits easily, safely, and with dignity.

If you're receiving CalFresh benefits, simply look for the signage at the Pierce College Bookstore and ask staff for assistance in identifying eligible items. All purchases made with EBT will be processed securely through the state-authorized system.

Students can visit LACC’s CalFresh Application Support page for step-by-step guides, FAQs, and information about student eligibility, including part-time workers, students with dependents, and recipients of federal work-study.