2.9.2010 The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has just issued new guidance for low-income immigrants. Receiving CalFresh, previously known as Food Stamps, will not affect potential applicants for USCIS benefits. The letter, which is available below in both English and Spanish, seeks to debunk myths surrounding the receipt of nutrition assistance for which some immigrants are eligible.The letter clearly states that when you are applying for permanent residency, you are not considered a “public charge” if you are using food programs, such as CalFresh, WIC, and school meals, health care benefits, or other programs that do not give cash.
![](https://nourishca.org/wp-content/themes/oasis-child/images/swatch-hero-white.png)
Blog
Follow breaking news, action alerts, and commentary by the Nourish California team.
USCIS Releases New Guidance for Low-Income Immigrants Applying for CalFresh!
Published on Feb 9, 2010 in CalFresh