How to Access SNAP and WIC as an Immigrant Family: Your Children Have Rights
Many Latino parents in Massachusetts are unaware that they can access programs like SNAP and WIC,
Even if they do not have legal immigration status or are not citizens.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly support to buy healthy foods and is available not only to citizens but also to certain immigrants with legal status, such as refugees, asylees, or lawful permanent residents.
In addition, parents can apply for SNAP on behalf of their U.S. citizen children without needing to show their own immigration documents.
WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) does not require immigration status and offers food, nutritional education, and support to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, babies, and children under age 5.
Both programs strengthen not only family nutrition but also emotional and financial stability at home, protecting the well-being of young children regardless of the immigration status of their caregivers.
Real Impact: How SNAP and WIC Strengthen Thousands of Households with Children
In Massachusetts, more than 1.1 million people received SNAP assistance during fiscal year 2024.
This equals 15.6% of the state’s population, surpassing the national average, with a total of 653,855 households assisted.
Of those households, nearly half (40%) included children, and in 2023, SNAP directly benefited over 307,000 children.
That means less hunger, greater access to healthy foods, and better support for children’s development.
WIC served 125,988 active participants in 2023–2024 out of the 179,195 eligible. This covers 70% of the need in the state (mass.gov).
The program has proven to improve outcomes in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and child nutrition, becoming a key resource for thousands of families.
SNAP and WIC: Help Available Regardless of Immigration Status
In SNAP, certain non-citizens are eligible, including refugees, asylees, and individuals with “qualified non-citizen” status.
Eligibility may also apply to those who meet certain U.S. residency requirements or recognized immigration status (Mass Legal Services).
Additionally, families can apply on behalf of their U.S. citizen children without needing immigration documents for the parent.
The DTA does not require immigration documentation for applicants who are not receiving benefits (Mass Legal Services).
WIC does not require immigration status and is available to pregnant women, mothers, babies, and children under age 5, regardless of citizenship or immigration status (Mass Legal Services). It is also not considered a public charge, and the information is confidential (Mass.gov, nutritionfirstwa.org).
What Changes Are Coming to SNAP and WIC?
Recent Changes to SNAP The new federal law “One Big Beautiful Bill” (signed July 4, 2025) includes:
- New work requirements: Now apply to people up to age 64. The exemption for children only covers those under 14 (Snap Screener).
- Reduced utility-based benefit calculations: Limits on how utility expenses are factored into benefit amounts (Propel).
- Administrative cost shift: Starting in 2028, states may have to pay 25–75% of administrative costs (National Association of Counties).
- Non-citizen eligibility changes are under discussion but do not yet apply in Massachusetts (No Kid Hungry Center for Best Practices).
- Current benefits remain unchanged for now but may vary as DTA implements new rules (Mass.gov).
WIC
- No immediate changes in eligibility.
- In programs like Taunton/Attleboro, the monthly fruit and vegetable bonus has been extended through December 2025: $26 for children, $44–$49 for mothers (Citizens for Citizens, Inc.).
- It is not considered a public charge and is independent of immigration status (Mass.gov, nutritionfirstwa.org).
What Does This Mean for Parents?
- You don’t need to be a citizen for your children to receive SNAP or WIC.
- If you meet specific status requirements (refugee, asylee, legal resident, etc.), you may also qualify.
- Federal changes may reduce benefits or change work rules soon.
- WIC remains a safe option if you live in Massachusetts and meet the criteria for pregnancy, young children, or income (Mass.gov, Propel).
What is SNAP and How Does It Work?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly money to buy healthy foods.
Funds are delivered via a card called EBT. You can use it in supermarkets, farmers markets, and authorized stores.
You may qualify if:
- You have low or moderate income.
- You live with children, seniors, or people with disabilities.
- Your household includes at least one citizen or legal resident (like your U.S.-born child).
- Even if you do not have immigration documents, you can apply for your citizen children.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SNAP in Massachusetts
Gather documentation:
- Monthly income.
- Housing expenses.
- ID for the people applying (if your child is a citizen, include their Social Security number).
Submit the application:
- By phone: Call 1-877-382-2363 (DTA) and request Spanish assistance.
- Online: Go to www.dtaconnect.com and select Spanish in the upper corner.
Complete an interview:
- You will receive a call or notice to confirm your information.
Wait for the response:
- Within a few days you will be informed if you qualify, and your EBT card will arrive by mail.
What is WIC and How Can It Help You?
WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) is another vital resource for families. It is designed for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under age five.
What Benefits Does WIC Offer?
- Healthy foods: milk, fruits, vegetables, baby formula, cereals, and more.
- Breastfeeding support.
- Free nutrition education.
- Referrals to medical and social services.
Who Can Qualify?
- Pregnant or postpartum women.
- Babies and children under age 5.
- Families within the income limits.
- Immigration status is not required for WIC if your children are citizens.
How to Apply for WIC in Massachusetts
- Call 1-800-942-1007 to find your nearest WIC office.
- Request Spanish-language service.
Schedule an appointment and bring:
- ID.
- Proof of address.
- Proof of income (if available).
Receive your monthly benefits and professional support.
Resources Available in Massachusetts
For SNAP (DTA – Department of Transitional Assistance)
- Phone: 1-877-382-2363
- Website: www.dtaconnect.com
- Available in Spanish.
- You can also download the DTA Connect app.
Project Bread – FoodSource Hotline
- Phone: 1-800-645-8333
- Free and confidential assistance.
- They help you apply for SNAP in Spanish.
- Website: www.projectbread.org
Health Care For All – Help Line
- Phone: 1-800-272-4232
- Guidance on your rights when applying for SNAP or MassHealth.
- Website: www.hcfama.org
WIC Offices
- Central line: 1-800-942-1007
- Find your office at www.mass.gov/wic
Local Example: Greater Boston WIC Program Phone: (617) 575-5330 They provide service in Spanish.
Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS)
- Phone: (617) 371-1234
- Free legal help if you’re denied benefits or have application problems.
- Website: www.gbls.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for SNAP if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. While some benefits require citizenship, there is also eligibility for qualified non-citizens, such as refugees, asylees, or individuals with certain immigration statuses who meet specific residency requirements. You can apply on behalf of your children, and you do not need to have immigration status to do so.
Does receiving SNAP or WIC affect my ability to get a green card or citizenship in the future?
No. Under current rules, these benefits do not count as a “public charge,” so they do not affect future immigration applications. Also, the information you share is confidential and is not reported to immigration authorities.
Do I need a Social Security Number to apply for SNAP or WIC?
Only for the individuals applying for benefits. For example, if your children are U.S. citizens, only their Social Security numbers are needed, not yours.
Can I apply if I work full-time or part-time?
Yes. SNAP and WIC are designed to support working families with limited income. Working does not automatically disqualify you.
What if I just moved to Massachusetts?
You can apply for SNAP or WIC if you currently live in the state, even if you just arrived. You only need to show proof of address (such as a letter, bill, or rental agreement).
Can I apply for SNAP and WIC at the same time?
Yes. These are different but complementary programs. Many families qualify for both and receive them at the same time.
What if I’m denied benefits?
You have the right to appeal. You can request a case review and receive free help from legal organizations like Greater Boston Legal Services (www.gbls.org).
How long does it take to get approved? SNAP typically responds within 30 days. If your case is urgent, you may receive benefits in just 7 days. WIC provides benefits after your first appointment, whether by phone or in person.
It’s Your Right: Nourish Your Family’s Future
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s an act of love for your family. Both SNAP and WIC are designed to support your health and well-being, especially during hard times.
If your children are U.S. citizens, you can also access these benefits—without fear, without shame, and in your language. Every EBT card or WIC check is an investment in your children’s health and future.
Make the call, fill out the form, ask for guidance. The first step can change your family’s life.
At My Health Fair, we connect you with trusted, safe, and Spanish-speaking organizations.
