Community Action Marin understands that many immigrants face complex challenges as they navigate a new life in the U.S., and we are committed to being a source of support and assistance. The following guide will offer peace of mind and a clear pathway toward resources, rights, and support systems that are available to all immigrants residing in Marin County. We will continue to keep information updated as policies change and as other resources become available.

It is important that you understand your rights and are informed about the laws where you live and work.

Information can create a sense of safety and clarity in the face of uncertainty. The resources below exist to keep community members informed. As things change, we recommend reaching out to a trusted provider for more information.

Make a plan for your family to exercise your legal rights in the case of an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) authorities.

Public benefits provide access to food, healthcare, housing, and other basic living needs. Immigrant eligibility for such benefits has not changed with the new administration. Utilize the Family Benefits Checklist from Protecting Immigrant Families to learn about your eligibility for different benefit programs, including health, food, housing, utilities, child care, and more.

You may be eligible for several public benefits. Community Action Marin can provide a comprehensive screening to determine your  eligibility and assist you with completing applications, including:

• LIHEAP: Community Action Marin is the local administrator of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. LIHEAP energy bill assistance can help you pay your heating bills in the form of a one-time payment.
• CalFresh: CalFresh (also known as SNAP) provides a monthly food assistance subsidy that you can use to purchase groceries from participating grocery stores and farmer’s markets.
• Medi-Cal: Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health care. It can help pay for doctor visits, hospital care, immunization (vaccines), pregnancy-related services, nursing home care, and other services.
• Learn more about eligibility and access applications by visiting our Public Benefits Assistance page.

Public charge is an assessment that determines if an immigrant is likely to rely on government assistance in the future. Healthcare, food, and housing assistance are not considered in the public charge assessment. The new administration has not changed public charge policy.

• Printable guides are available from Protecting Immigrant Families in multiple languages and provide more information about Public Charge.
• The Public Charge Test Guide from Keep Your Benefit helps you understand if using a public benefit would affect your immigration options.

The U.S. immigration system is complex and can be challenging to navigate. It is important for you to speak with a legal services provider about your specific case.