URBANDALE, IA — Refugees in Iowa are describing a sharp change in how they feed their families after federal SNAP rules shifted and cut off access for some immigrants. One man who goes by Kamran said the loss has left his household with fewer options, especially because his family depends on one income while he deals with health issues.
Kamran, his wife and their six children now lean on whatever food they can afford when money runs short. He said the situation has made daily life feel unstable and expensive, with housing and groceries both stretching the family budget.
Federal SNAP changes are driving uncertainty for refugees and asylees
Kamran said the change stems from last year’s passage of the federal Big Beautiful Bill, which means refugees and many other immigrants, including asylees, can no longer access SNAP benefits. He said that has forced families like his to rethink every meal.
“If we have the means, we cook our own food. And if we don’t, we will just eat bread,” he said. He also said the lack of a green card adds another layer of difficulty, making it harder to move forward or even leave home with confidence.
Advocates say families are being pushed to adjust status or lose help
Jody Mashek of the Iowa Migrant Movement Center for Justice said she has been tracking the many policy changes affecting immigrant households over the last few years. She said people are increasingly being told they must adjust their status to that of a permanent resident if they want to keep benefits…