Creating Pathways to Financial Security:
How Community Navigators Help Our Neighbors
Too many of our neighbors are one unfortunate event away from crisis; especially without a safety net or support.
After facing the loss of employment, Theresa, a 57-year-old resident of New Haven, was facing issues affording rent, food, and other basic needs.
Theresa had supplemental income with social security payments and food benefits, however after the loss of her job, she experienced a reduction in food benefits. Her car was also vandalized and she was unable to afford repairs.
“I felt like I was at my bottom. There was no one to help.”
A friend of Theresa's recommended she reach out to United Way, and for the first time in her life, she reached out for help with financial services. A United Way Community Navigator was able to help Theresa with funds to catch up on her rent, as well as helping her with a bus pass and gift cards to buy groceries.
“The Community Navigator was so helpful in my situation and understanding. She responded quickly, was very informative and explained everything to me.” Theresa was able to use the bus pass we gave her to get to Walmart to purchase groceries and other basic needs.
“I am so grateful she helped me. I can go grocery shopping again!”
Through the intervention from a Community Navigator, Theresa will be caught up on her rent and able to purchase basic needs for her home. In the future, Theresa is looking forward to being able to move to a new apartment and purchase a new car.