Violence Against Woman Act (VAWA)

• The spouse of a US citizen legal permanent resident when the abuser is the US citizen legal resident spouse or a member of his/her family living in the home;
• The child of a US citizen or legal permanent resident when the abuser is the parent, parent's spouse, or family member of the parent or parent's spouse living in the home;
• The child of the battered spouse; and/or
• The parent of the battered child.

If you file a petition to adjust your immigration status, you may be able to obtain cash benefits and domestic violence services through CalWORKs while your petition is being reviewed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

If you are already receiving benefits for your family and need help with your immigration status, ask your case worker for assistance. If not, contact your nearest CalWORKs Office to apply for benefits.