If you are a mother, expecting a child, or provide care for children or dependents, there are resources available to help you and your loved ones. The government has permanent programs in place, as well as new and temporary emergency assistance programs due to the hardships of COVID-19. There are also many non-profit organizations that offer free resources in their communities. Here’s a list of resources and programs if you are in need of food, cash, utility or housing assistance, legal help, tax benefit information, and more:
Can I receive benefits without jeopardizing my immigration status?
Non-citizens often qualify for assistance, especially if their children are citizens with social security numbers. In most cases, it will not affect your status to receive government assistance (like SNAP or WIC) or free resources from organizations in your community. However, there is an exception for cash benefits, such as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash benefit. Cash benefits can be considered a public charge.
According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, these benefits will not affect your status:
- Emergency medical assistance;
- Disaster relief;
- National school lunch programs;
- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children;
- The Children’s Health Insurance Program;
- Subsidies for foster care and adoption;
- Government-subsidized student and mortgage loans;
- Energy assistance;
- Food pantries and homeless shelters; and
- Head Start.
If you have a lawyer, it is always safe to inquire with them first. See HERE for more information about public charge.
What kinds of resources are available for mothers and pregnant women?
There are various resources available for mothers, pregnant women, or anyone in need. Below are some resources and step-by-step instructions on how to apply for programs and how to access these resources in your community.
Food Resources and Assistance Programs
Step by Step: What is the Process to Apply for the Food Stamp Program or SNAP? (English version) (Spanish version)
Here’s What You Need To Know About EBT Cards & Benefits (English version) (Spanish version)
How To Find Free Food Near You, Step-By-Step (English version) (Spanish version)
Cash Assistance, Utility Assistance, and More