As the Trump administration continues its second term, the health and healthcare experiences of immigrant families, particularly those with children, are increasingly affected by heightened immigration enforcement policies. Approximately one in four children in the United States has at least one immigrant parent, with the majority of these children being U.S. Citizens. The recent intensification of immigration enforcement has fostered significant fear and uncertainty within immigrant communities, which can adversely impact their health and deter them from seeking necessary healthcare services.
This article synthesizes findings from a survey conducted by KFF in collaboration with The New York Times in Fall 2025, which highlights the challenges faced by immigrant parents—naturalized citizens, lawful immigrants and likely undocumented immigrants—with children under 18. The data reflects the increasing strain on these families, particularly as immigration enforcement activities ramp up in various regions, including Minneapolis.
Economic Pressures on Immigrant Families
Many immigrant parents report heightened economic challenges since January 2025. Approximately 52% indicate that earning a living has develop into more difficult, while over half (55%) have struggled with affording healthcare, housing, or food in the past year. This situation appears to be worsening compared to previous years, with reports of difficulties in meeting basic needs rising significantly from 2023 to 2025:
- Healthcare affordability issues increased from 22% to 42%.
- Challenges related to rent or mortgage rose from 22% to 36%.
- Food insecurity rose from 21% to 32%.
Impact of Immigration-Related Fears
Immigration-related fears have profound implications for the health of immigrant families. About 27% of immigrant parents report that their children have expressed concerns about the potential dangers their families face due to their immigration status. This figure is notably higher among undocumented parents, with 60% reporting similar worries. Nearly half (47%) of immigrant parents have experienced negative health impacts, including increased stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges since the start of 2025. Approximately 18% of these parents indicate that their children’s well-being has also been adversely affected by such worries.
The negative health impacts reported include:
- Increased stress, anxiety, or sadness (47%)
- Difficulty sleeping or eating (29%)
- Worsening chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension (19%)
Access to Healthcare
Access to healthcare remains a significant challenge for immigrant families. About 22% of immigrant parents are uninsured, which is double the rate of uninsured parents without children at home. 15% of immigrant parents report having at least one uninsured child. This percentage rises to 27% among likely undocumented parents and about 22% for those with annual household incomes under $40,000.
Many immigrant families have also delayed or skipped necessary healthcare services due to immigration-related fears. Around 30% of immigrant parents report that their children missed, delayed, or skipped healthcare in the past year for reasons including:
- Immigration-related concerns (14%)
- Inability to find conveniently located services (13%)
- Cost or lack of insurance (12%)
Among undocumented immigrants, this rate is even higher, with 58% stating that their children missed healthcare due to these fears. Notably, 20% of immigrant parents say they or a family member avoided seeking medical care due to concerns over immigration enforcement.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing changes in immigration policy and enforcement raise serious questions about the future health and well-being of immigrant families in the U.S. As federal agencies increase their presence in communities, particularly in healthcare settings, fears may continue to grow, leading to further avoidance of necessary medical care.
Healthcare professionals and policymakers necessitate to address these concerns through targeted outreach and support to ensure that immigrant families feel safe accessing the healthcare they need. It is imperative to foster an environment where health services are accessible and welcoming to all, regardless of immigration status.
The findings from KFF highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to support immigrant families in navigating their unique challenges during this tumultuous time. The health impacts of current immigration policies must be considered in the broader context of public health and community well-being.
Please share your thoughts on how these policy changes have affected immigrant families and healthcare access in your community.
