If you’ve been wondering, “What programs can non-citizens access?” or “How do these new federal changes affect our clients?”—you’re not alone. There’s a lot happening right now with health coverage and food assistance, and we want to break it down in plain language, so you know your options.
Shout out to the Health Equity and Anti-Racism Community Advisory Group PHSKC meeting, November 6, 2025, for bringing community together to provide robust updates on these changes; including:
- Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) and PH Strategic Plan reporting, presented by Eva Wong, Strategic Planning Manager for PHSKC.
- SNAP & Medicaid Change, presented by Giselle Zapata-Garcia, Navigator & Enrollment & Equity & Community Engagement Manager.
Here’s a synthesis of those updates.
Can Non-Citizens Get Help?
Yes! Even if you’re not a U.S. citizen, there are programs that may be available to you:
- Apple Health for Kids (ages 0–18)
- Alien Emergency Medical (for hospital-related issues)
- Hospital Charity Care (apply directly with the hospital)
- Family Planning Only (for men and women)
- Prescription Assistance Programs
- Breast, Cervical, and Colon Health Program (call 1-800-756-5437)
- Dental Care at Public Health Centers and King County Adult Dental Program
Heads up: Apple Health for non-citizens is currently full, and qualified health plans require monthly premiums and co-pays.
What’s Changing with Food Assistance?
Starting July 4, 2025, the federal government changed who can get SNAP (food stamps):
- SNAP is now only for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs).
- Refugees and humanitarian entrants (like victims of crime and abuse, asylees) are still eligible.
- Other immigration categories will lose federal food assistance.
Washington State is looking at ways to help through its Food Assistance Program (FAP), so stay tuned for updates.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Monthly premiums for health coverage are going up.
- Some people will lose insurance coverage.
- DACA recipients lost premium assistance as of October 1, 2025.
- Non-citizens with legal documentation and income under 100% FPL will lose premium help in January.
We’re working with the Exchange to find options—don’t give up!
What Is Basic Food?
Basic Food is Washington State’s version of SNAP. It helps low-income residents buy healthy food. If you qualify, you’ll get an EBT card that works at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and even online at Walmart, Target, and Amazon (for food only).
Who Can Get Basic Food?
- You must meet income limits.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or have legal documentation to live in the U.S.
- Undocumented immigrants aren’t eligible, but their U.S. citizen kids may be.
- You’ll need to verify identity and show proof of housing expenses.
Work Requirements Are Back
Some groups will no longer be exempt from work rules, including:
- Veterans who aren’t disabled
- Unhoused adults
- Adults with dependents 14+
- Adults ages 54–65
- Foster care alumni under 25
If you miss work requirements for three months, benefits stop until you meet them again or get an exemption.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
Reach out to Public Health Seattle & King County:
- Call: 1-800-756-5437
- Visit:
- Skyway Resource Center (Seattle)
- ORCA Lift (Downtown Seattle)
- Federal Way Storefront
Join our First Friday Forum (in-person or on Zoom) for updates and resources.
Learn more: kingcounty.gov/fff or kingcounty.gov/outreach
Questions?
Our Access & Outreach Team is ready to help. Email chap@kingcounty.gov or call 800-756-5437.