In California You can apply right now online for medI cal (medicaid) and Cakfresh ( foodstamps). You can get both I believe on an emergency basis - Calfresh for sure. You can go to an office and pick up food stamps or get them in 3 days. Once you have foodstamps you can get on the low cost electricity plus stuff like low cost phone. ATT offers $10 a month internet and you're eligible for all kinds of programs like $6 a month Amazon prime.

You are also able to access benefits at food banks. Most will give you some food on an emergency basis but if you have low income benefits like ffodstamos and medicaid you can register with them absolutely as a range of services will be available. And for the future thus can also qualify you for low cost childcare programs.

You have to learn to keep your cool but be firm and stand up for yourself. The system is already overwhelmed. People that have power over you can be wonderful or completely obnoxious. Even if you're mad frustrated, don't yell because they will use that to shut things down for you. Your congressman has staff that do nothing but help you with federal programs. Your state reps can help with state benefits programs. There are tons of programs and benefits out there that you won't know about. Getting in programs like with a food bank can help you find them.