Marshallese people immediately eligible for SNAP benefits

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — After decades of waiting, Marshallese people living in the United States through the Compact of Free Association Act are immediately eligible for SNAP benefits.

In 1985, the COFA Act was passed allowing people from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau to live and work in the U.S. legally.

Back in March, through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, lawmakers added COFA citizens to the list of noncitizens eligible to receive federal public benefits without a waiting period.

Carolina Bien with the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese says this will help every Marshallese household in Springdale.

“No matter how many hours you put into your work it’s still not enough to pay every expense and food also,” Bien said.

Eligibility for SNAP benefits is based on your household income and the size of your household.

You can apply online , in person at a local Department of Human Services Office or over the phone.

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