In San Francisco alone, it is estimated that 15,700 elderly and disabled immigrants will be affected by welfare reform. They hail from around the world, though the majority come from the former Soviet Union, China and Latin America. A range of experiences brought those immigrants to America. They tell vastly different stories, and pray to different gods. These days, though, all of them are bound by the common language of fear.
Some people are suicidal.
Most Soviet Jewish emigres enter the country as refugees, a status that entitles them to full work authorization, medical benefits and food stamps. After four months, they can begin receiving indefinite medical aid. Under the new legislation, their special status will expire after five years, when they become eligible for citizenship. Those who enter this country with immigrant status, however, face an even tougher battle. Yet, while Jewish and other social service agencies in the area have been bracing for welfare reform for some time, the reality is only beginning to strike most immigrants.