Changes at "Information Advocates"

What problem would you like to solve?

Lack of information in Portuguese regarding all the benefits that NYC agencies and NYS agencies provide for people in vulnerable situations (low-income, abuse survivors, elderly, homeless youth, etc).

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

This helps Brazilian immigrants utilize city and state resources more effectively and promotes economic stability

What idea do you have to address the problem?

Create community advocate groups with a social worker/navigator point person. The groups will outreach to the community in Portuguese and will assist with SNAP and Section 8 applications, for example. The navigator/ social worker will support the group, answer questions and review the applications. This project would make sure the information gets to people who need it the most. It would also identify and help remove any additional barriers to accessing services. It is important that this project also has groups that focus on outreaching to Brazilian elderly and low income community members in Brazilian Portuguese

Who would that help?

Brazilian immigrants in vulnerable situations (low-income, abuse survivors, elderly, homeless youth, etc)

What NYC borough would benefit from your idea?

Queens