Housing Assistance For Illegal Immigrants

• Author: Monica Jackson
• Posted: 2024-08-01

The U.S. government provides housing assistance to illegal immigrants and their families in some cases. However, not everyone can qualify for public housing or other government housing subsidies. Families with mixed-status members are permitted to live in public housing as long as one member of the household is a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. That means that one in every four public housing units in the United States contains an illegal immigrant household.

In addition to housing assistance for illegal immigrants, the federal government offers public housing subsidies to families with at least one American citizen. The government has been allowing households headed by an American citizen - often a U.S.-born child - to qualify for this housing assistance. However, eligibility requirements for public housing subsidies have tightened. Immigrant households must be headed by an American citizen or be a lawful permanent resident.

The Federal government does not mandate housing assistance for illegal immigrants, but many state governments offer some sort of assistance to eligible people. For example, the Salvation Army offers emergency housing for women who have been victims of domestic violence. Other state governments provide employment opportunities, disability resources, and other support for undocumented residents. But the Salvation Army is particularly helpful for women who are surviving the loss of their families. A woman can call this agency to see if there is a space available in their shelter. Applicants must have an income sufficient to pay the $50 monthly program fee and pro-rated rental subsidies.

HUD offers disqualified families an 18-month grace period so that family members can complete their legal immigration process, or prepare for their return home. During the hearing, Rep. Carolyn Maloney said that Carson's proposal is "the most damaging public policy proposal ever." Ben Carson kept his cool during the hearing, saying he'd be glad to meet Maloney when she explains to American families why illegal immigrants should be given priority over other families.