HEALTH
RESOURCES
The safety of our community members is our top priority. We have compiled a list of resources that our legal and organizing teams have created to ensure our members are safe in their workplace.
Please remember that these are supplemental resources and we highly recommend that you reach out to a health specialist should you have any questions particular to your case.
PUBLIC CHARGE – MARCH 2021
What is the latest?
VICTORY! On March 9, 2021, the public charge rule created by the Trump Administration was halted nationwide. Now, applicants for green cards inside and outside the U.S. can utilize benefits for which they qualify and apply for status without fear.
– Since 2017, Make the Road New York and allies have fought against this racist public charge rule and won in federal court. But the Trump administration had appealed our victory. When the new Biden administration dropped its appeal of our court victory, the new public charge rule was finally halted. Now, applicants are subject only to the previous 1999 policy.
– Under the 1999 policy, green card applicants can be found to be a public charge only in very limited situations: (1) if they have relied upon cash benefits (for which very few people qualify) or (2) have been institutionalized in a long-term care facility. Applicants will still be required to meet the financial sponsor requirements during their green card process..
– Benefits such as SNAP (food stamps), Federal Public Housing and Section 8 Assistance, and Federally Funded Medicaid are NO LONGER considered part of the public charge test. Additionally services such as WIC, hospitals/clinics, and food pantries are NOT considered for public charge.
– Factors such as health, age, income, household size, skills (such as English language) are NO LONGER factors in the public charge determination.
Health Services
Make the Road NY offers a wide array of services for our communities. Below, you’ll find a one-pager on the services that our Health Department currently offers.
Food Stamps (SNAP)
Find out if you are eligible for food stamps and apply or renew your benefits. For more information about eligibility and requirements, and help applying or renewing in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island call 866-365-2724 Ext 3
Food Pantry
FREE: Fresh greens, grains, beans and more! By appointment Only. Call and leave a message for Brooklyn or Queens and we will return your call with an appointment. 866-365-2724 ext 4
Health Advocates
Learn how your health insurance works, negotiate medical debt and bills, learn where to get affordable health care services even if you are uninsured, change your doctor, order a new card, or get assistance with Medicare Benefits. Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Staten Island & Westchester 866-365-2724 Ext 1
TGNCIQ & LGBTQ Community Health
Help finding resources and services for your health. Assistance with insurance enrollment, connections with clinics for hormones and more. 866-365-2724 Ext 2
Health Insurance Enrollment/ Recertification
Enroll in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, a Qualified Health Plan, or pre-qualify for Emergency Medicaid through the NY State of Health Marketplace. Learn if you can get help paying for health insurance. You can also renew or change your health plan. Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island & Westchester 866-365-2724 Ext 1