By arguing against their notion that "illegal aliens" are receiving welfare, you still preserve and even reinforce the core argument; that undocumented immigrants are "bad people" and that they should receive no support or protection.

Instead, come at the frame; "These are people, not aliens, and a person cannot be 'illegal'."

State of Nevada TANF: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. TANF, TANF-Related Medicaid and other Medical Assistance may be available to "qualified non-citizens" who arrived in the country before August 22, 1996. For non-qualifying citizens who arrived on or after August 22, 1996, the state complies with federal laws which may limit or expand eligibility to various groups. Non-citizen parents may apply for benefits for their children who meet citizenship. Receiving TANF or Medicaid won't affect your ability to become a U.S. citizen. (https://dwss.nv.gov/#DWSSans-07)

State of NC TANF: requires evidence of U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen (http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dss/workfirst/eligibility.htm)

State of NY TANF: requires evidence of U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen (http://otda.ny.gov/programs/temporary-assistance/#apply)

etc. etc.

U.S.-born children of undocumented aliens are U.S. citizens and they are entitled to benefits, however.

Note: my use of the word 'alien' is consistent with the same terminology used in codified laws and regulations, particularly 8 CFR which deals with immigration and nationality. I am myself an alien and I describe myself as such.

applications for TANF/SNAP benefits." Thanks.

"Be kind to the alien and the stranger, for you were once an alien in the Land of Egypt. I am the Lord thy God."

http://thinkprogress.org/immigration/2013/05/09/1985481/your-ultimate-guide-to-the-myths-and-realities-of-the-immigration-debate/?mobile=nc

http://blog.chron.com/immigration/2008/01/illegal-immigrants-on-welfare-fact-or-fiction/


MYTH #3: The nation spends billions of dollars on welfare for undocumented immigrants.

FACTS: To the contrary, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to receive any “welfare” benefits and even legal immigrants are severely restricted in the benefits they can receive.

As the Congressional Research Service points out in a 2007 report, undocumented immigrants, who comprise nearly one-third of all immigrants in the country, are not eligible to receive public “welfare” benefits — ever

We have no citizenship requirements.
We offer services to all.
One reason is because it cost less to treat people before the problems turn into more serious consequences. The same goes for our Public Health department. One way or the other we are going to spend tax dollars on undocumented immigrants. They are here and you just can't pretend they don't exist.
Most of them pay the taxes that fund the services they get. The funding comes from vehicle license fees and state sales tax
They are not getting something for nothing.

they should get in their flying saucer and leave.

But that would have made a great comeback!