San Diego Supervisors Approve $20.4 Million Health and Food Bridge Program

San Diego County supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday to approve a one-year pilot program designed to help residents maintain access to essential services.

The board authorized the Safety Net Bridge Program, which Vice Chair Monica Montgomery Steppe proposed to address gaps in care caused by recent federal budget cuts.

The initiative will serve county residents between 19 and 64 years old who currently qualify for Medi-Cal but face temporary loss of coverage under new federal rules.

The program includes free medical services, food assistance, and a WorkReady Hub to help residents navigate new requirements and keep their benefits.

According to the meeting agenda, the pilot will cost $20.4 million over the next year.

The proposal follows the passage of House Resolution 1, which the House and Senate approved on a party-line vote in early July 2025.

President Donald Trump signed the budget into law on July 4, establishing the cuts and new requirements affecting Medicaid and other programs.

County supervisors advanced the proposal in November 2025 and voted to begin program development in March 2026.

Subsequent actions included approving grants to Feeding San Diego and the San Diego Food Bank, as well as holding a food distribution event in Chula Vista.

Montgomery Steppe stated that the program aims to keep a lifeline of services open for vulnerable residents regardless of changes in Washington.

She noted that the medical component is designed to pay for primary care visits during coverage gaps and assist people affected by House Resolution 1 in returning to Medi-Cal.

Supervisor Jim Desmond expressed support for the program, noting that it prioritizes eligible Medi-Cal residents, though he raised concerns about future funding sources beyond the pilot year.