NSEDA.net

Newberry Springs Economic Development Association

Category: Helping Hand

Information about regulations and opportunities for small businesses.

  • CalFresh Changes

    CalFresh Changes

    Important CalFresh Changes: New Work Requirements Take Effect

    The Newberry Springs Economic Development Association (NSEDA) wants to ensure our community stays informed about important changes to California’s food assistance program. As of July 1, 2026, new federal requirements affect many CalFresh (formerly known as Food Stamps) recipients in our area .

    What Has Changed?

    Under the new rules, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) between the ages of 18 and 64 must now complete at least 80 hours per month (averaging 20 hours per week) of qualifying activities to continue receiving benefits .

    The changes have expanded the groups affected. Previously exempt individuals who may now need to comply include :

    • Adults ages 55 to 64
    • Parents whose youngest child is 14 or older
    • Veterans
    • Individuals experiencing homelessness
    • People in or formerly in foster care

    How Can You Meet the Requirement?

    The good news is that there are multiple ways to meet the work requirement. Qualifying activities include :

    • Paid employment (20 hours per week or 80 hours per month)
    • Self-employment or running your own business
    • Volunteer work at a qualified nonprofit organization or public institution 
    • Job training or workforce development programs
    • Education programs (attending at least half-time)
    • Community service activities

    Who Is Exempt?

    Not everyone must meet the new requirements. Exemptions apply to :

    • Individuals under 18 or over 64
    • Pregnant individuals
    • People with verified physical or mental disabilities
    • Those caring for a dependent child under age 14
    • Individuals who identify as Indian, Urban Indian, or California Indian under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act

    Important: The new rules do not apply to everyone immediately. If you are already receiving CalFresh, you will not need to meet the work requirement until your next recertification interview .

    What Should You Do?

    1. Watch for notices from your county benefits office regarding your recertification
    2. Respond promptly to any requests for information
    3. Keep your contact information up to date with the county
    4. Ask about exemptions if you believe one may apply to you
    5. Seek assistance if you have questions about your eligibility 

    Barstow Office Information

    For official information or to apply, renew benefits, or ask questions about exemptions, the local office is:

    TAD Barstow 

    • Address: 1900 E. Main St., Barstow, CA 92311
    • Phone: 1-877-410-8829
    • Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
    • Closed: Saturday and Sunday

    You can also find official guidance from the California Department of Social Services at cdss.ca.gov .

    This article is for informational purposes. For official determinations about your benefits, please contact the Barstow TAD office directly or consult with a county caseworker during your recertification interview. The Newberry Springs Economic Development Association is here to help connect our community with vital resources.

  • Helping Hand: Demystifying Local Zoning for Home Businesses

    Helping Hand: Demystifying Local Zoning for Home Businesses

    Success in business requires a solid legal foundation. For residents in Newberry Springs, this means understanding the San Bernardino County Home Occupation standards. Whether you are running a consulting firm or a small repair shop, there are specific guidelines regarding noise, traffic, and signage that ensure your business remains a “good neighbor.”

    The Helping Hand resource center provides direct links to the necessary permit applications and a simplified guide to what is allowed in our specific rural-residential zones. By checking these boxes early, you protect your business from future liabilities and ensure that as your “Idea Incubator” project grows, it does so on stable ground.

  • Helping Hand: A Resident’s Guide to the California Cottage Food Act

    Helping Hand: A Resident’s Guide to the California Cottage Food Act

    One of the most common questions we receive is: “Do I need a commercial kitchen to sell my baked goods?” Thanks to the California Cottage Food Act (AB 1616), the answer for many small-scale producers is “No.” This legislation allows individuals to prepare certain non-hazardous foods in their private home kitchens and sell them to the public.

    The Helping Hand series breaks down the “Class A” and “Class B” permits required by San Bernardino County. We provide the checklists for labeling, ingredients, and the specific list of approved foods—ranging from dried fruit to high-acid vinegars. Understanding these regulations is the first step in moving your business from “under-the-table” to a legitimate, scalable enterprise.