UPDATE: The Federal Government has issued a final public charge rule, which limits its application and removes barriers to accessing public benefits for most immigrants. The final rule is effective December 23, 2022.
Your health is our priority, however with the Public Charge rule change on October 15, the decision of whether to forgo public benefits for a chance at future permanent residency is a personal decision that you need to make based upon your family's circumstances. We can provide you with a list of legal resources to contact who can help you make that decision based upon what's best for you and your family.
The California Department of Social Services and the L.A. County Office of Immigrant Affairs have compiled lists of Public Charge Service Providers which you can find here:
LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs
LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs - Legal Service Providers
Immigration Services Contractors
NILC presentation on Public Charge
On October 3, 2019, attorney Gabrielle Lessard from the National Immigration Law Center, gave a presentation on Public Charge to L.A. Care Providers.
Watch a video of the presentation.