What the CalFresh Forum Has Been. What It Can Be.
A note from those who have and will plan the Forum
Over the years, the CalFresh Forum has taken many forms—hosted in theaters, libraries, hotels, community colleges, and even fully virtual. The setting has never been the point. What has remained constant is our shared commitment to come together around a universal need: access to food.
Each year, it is an honor to convene community members, advocates, and decision makers in a space rooted in care, respect, and a deep belief in what’s possible when we listen and learn from one another. The Forum has always been more than an event. It’s a place to reflect, to challenge, and to move forward together.
As we look ahead, we are expanding the conversation. While CalFresh remains a critical foundation, we are reaching beyond its boundaries exploring the broader systems, experiences, and ideas that shape food access across California. This next chapter invites us to think bigger, act with intention, and stay grounded in the communities most impacted.
2026 Theme: We Imagine, We Act.
Together, we will imagine food justice beyond the limits of what we are told is politically possible. And we will move those ideas into action. As Ruha Benjamin reminds us, imagination must be paired with strategy and organizing to bring new futures into being.
We look forward to building that future together.
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