FNS Issues Guidelines for COFA!
At Last, Long-Awaited SNAP Implementation Guidelines Released for COFA Citizens!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2024
Springdale, AR — Today, in a momentous stride toward equity and compassion, the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has unveiled new guidance that extends a lifeline to our Compact of Free Association (COFA) citizens. These resilient individuals, hailing from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau, have faced immense challenges while striving to build lives in the United States.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, of 2024, signed into law by President Joseph R. Biden, brings forth a transformative change. COFA citizens are no longer subject to the agonizing waiting period that often accompanies assistance programs. Instead, they are immediately eligible for benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), provided they meet other financial and non-financial criteria1.
State agencies play a pivotal role in this transformation. They will verify the immigration status of COFA citizens through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program. But this isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about restoring dignity. It’s about recognizing that every person—regardless of origin—deserves sustenance and a chance to thrive.
CEO of Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese, Melisa Laelan said, ''Today, as the Food and Nutrition Service extends its hand, we weave resilience into the fabric of our community. Remember this: eligibility isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about empowerment. Our COFA citizens, once denied, now stand on the threshold of nourishment. This isn’t just policy; it’s a symphony of hope echoing across oceans.''
To our tireless advocates, community leaders, and volunteers: Let’s amplify this message. Let’s ensure every eligible COFA citizen knows their rights. If they were previously denied, let’s guide them back to the table. Let’s weave a safety net—one that catches dreams, not just statistics. We appreciate Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) for your commitment to ensuring access to essential services.
As we wait on the implementation of this guidance from our state agencies, we hope the process is streamlined and that COFA-specific information is available on application forms and websites. State agency staff responsible for SNAP applications need to be trained on the new guidelines.
Here is the link to the guidelines: SNAP Provisions in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 | Food and Nutrition Service (usda.gov)
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About: Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese (ACOM) is a non-profit organization 501c(3) founded in 2011 focusing on initiatives to improve the quality of life for the more than 15,000 Marshallese community members living in Arkansas. We serve Marshallese and strive to support and build capacity with other Pacific Islander communities. ACOM engages the Marshallese community through a culturally specific approach by applying education, leadership, policy, and holistic services.
For media inquiries, please contact
Michelle Pedro
Policy Director & Communications Specialist
Email: mpedro@arkansasmarshallese.org
phone: 479.365.6625