New Research on Harm of Public Charge During COVID-19

Dear Allies,

This week, we are sharing some new research that documents the chilling effect of Trump’s public charge rule, placing it in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month. 

We also hope you are taking the time and space you need for your own mental health. We are sharing a few links below that offer resources and tools that we hope you will find useful:

• 44 Mental Health Resources for Black People Trying to Survive in This Country

• The CentAm Collective Mental Health Resource Directory

• Mental Health & Wellness: The Best Apps & Resources For Self Care

Last week, the Coalition on Human Needs honored the PIF campaign with the 2020 Human Needs Hero Award for leadership in bringing many thousands of advocates together to protect and serve immigrant families. Census Counts and Count All Kids also received awards this year! We are honored to be recognized, and want to thank all of you for contributing to the growth and effectiveness of the PIF campaign! 

A new study published by Health Affairs investigates the chilling effect of Trump's public charge rule, specifically looking at whether the rule affected the number of children enrolled in Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC. The research findings are startling, especially in the context of our current health and economic crisis. The research finds that public charge may have led to more than a quarter-million eligible children losing their health coverage during the pandemic.

Every year, our nation observes Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. We celebrate the histories, arts, and cultures of those with Hispanic and Latinx heritage. Throughout these 30 days, several Latin American countries also celebrate the anniversaries of their independence, including Costa Rica (9/15), El Salvador (9/15), Guatemala (9/15), Honduras (9/15), Nicaragua (9/15), Mexico (9/16), and Chile (9/18). You can read more about Hispanic Heritage Month and check out beautiful galleries, videos, and virtual exhibits here.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, CLASP published a blog sharing the story of the Young Lords, a revolutionary group of young Puerto Rican activists that fought for access to health care, community education and empowerment, and the liberation of oppressed people everywhere. As a reminder, in an effort to support our partners’ outreach efforts, we have Spanish versions of several PIF resources available, including this short presentation template slide deck about public charge. Also, this template flyer includes key public charge messages for community members and remains an accurate source of information under any version of the public charge regulations.

• Chicago Tribune – New state program provides health coverage to older people regardless of immigration status.

• CNN – Georgetown University Center for Children & Families says public charge is driving three consecutive years of rising uninsured rates for kids.

In Solidarity,

Eddie Carmona & Renato Rocha, on behalf of the PIF Team

Visit us at https://protectingimmigrantfamilies.org/