The 4Cs is asking for your help on an issue that could harm our students and our colleges. Last week the Department of Homeland Security officially published its proposed “public charge” rule that will restrict individuals receiving green cards. It will also likely increase fear among immigrant populations on using public services.
Many of our students need the safety net that public services provide. Our colleges have food banks because our students have food insecurity. The Hartford Courant has reported on the high level of housing insecurity in our system. Recently, the Connecticut Community Colleges became a leader is offering free courses to SNAP recipients as a means of obtaining education that will help them to become self-sufficient.
Even if our students are in the U.S. legally, there will likely be confusion and fear in immigrant families over use of the programs that lead to legal residents losing status.
Participation in the following programs will disqualify immigrants from green cards:
- SNAP (food stamps);
- Section 8 housing and other housing programs;
- Non-emergency Medicaid;
- Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy
Personal factors that will be counted against immigrants include:
- Too young (under 18) or too old (over 61),
- Existing medical conditions (and no insurance)
- Limited English fluency
- Low-income
Help us fight back and stop this rule from taking effect! The 4Cs is asking you to submit comments on how this proposed change could affect our colleges! The federal government will be accepting comments until December 10.
Go to SEIU.org/TakeCharge to submit a comment.