While debates about immigration—and the controversial approach to separating families at the southwestern border of the U.S.—dominate the news, advocates warn that children may be at risk for losing healthcare coverage through Medicaid, according to a recent report from Kaiser Health News.
Undocumented parents, for example, are less likely to apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, and Medicaid if they fear their immigration status could lead to deportation—even when children are citizens and entitled to such assistance.
Marlene, an undocumented mother in Texas, has two children who are U.S. citizens, allowing them to apply for government assistance programs. But she is hesitant that her status could lead to problems.
“They are asking a lot of questions,” she said to Kaiser Health News. “They are investigating one’s life from head to toe.”
Having to decide between applying for government assistance and possible exposure of undocumented status, Marlene could face additional challenges if a proposal to change green card eligibility is adopted into law. Receiving benefits could impair one’s chances of receiving permanent residency—leaving children in difficult positions.
“We are seeing families having to make this impossible choice,” said Maria Hernandez, the founder of Vela, a nonprofit in Austin that helps parents who have children with disabilities.
The Kaiser Family Foundation estimates 10 million citizens under the age of 18 who have one parent who is undocumented.
Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.