OLGT 2023-55: Cross Programs: Ensuring Benefit Access for Noncitizen Clients

DTA Explanation of OLGT 2023-55:

The Department has seen an increase in applications from noncitizen clients with qualified statuses, particularly Cuban-Haitian Entrants, some of whom are also in need of housing assistance. Over recent months, DTA has released guidance and tools to help assess Cuban-Haitian Entrants’ status when determining SNAP, TAFDC, and EAEDC eligibility.

DTA works closely with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC, formerly known as the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)), which provides affordable housing options to residents of the Commonwealth. EOHLC also oversees the Emergency Assistance (EA) program, an emergency shelter program for families experiencing homelessness. DTA and EOHLC serve many common clients and are co-located in ten offices across the state. DTA also works in close collaboration with the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Office of Refugees and Immigrants (ORI), Department of Public Health (DPH), Department of Children and Families (DCF), MassHealth, and Department of Mental Health (DMH) to help ensure that these families are connected to other programs and supports for which they are eligible.