Newcomer Navigators

The Newcomer Navigators project started in 2022 with support from Cuyahoga County. To ensure this project is culturally responsive and as close to the communities as possible, it is co-created and co-managed by Smart Development, Re:Source Cleveland, Rise Together, and Nueva Luz Urban Resource Center. Newcomer Navigators is more than just a navigator program. We believe international newcomers are an essential part of our community and should be fully integrated rather than navigating from the outside.

Smart Development's Newcomer Navigators work focuses on helping members of the newcomer community whether they just arrived or have lived here over two years navigate their various needs in connection and coordination with our project partners and Cuyahoga County. Smart Development covers the MENA (Middle Eastern and Northern African) and Somali community. Our friends at Re:Source Cleveland serve the Afghan, Congolese, and Spanish-speaking community, and Nueva Luz Urban Resource Center serves the Spanish-speaking community as well. In total, there are 7 navigators.

Housing/Utilities

Navigation support for all related housing needs including identifying housing opportunities, tenant landlord mediation, payment assistance, and utility shut offs and management.

Employment

Providing individuals and families with expanded access to employment opportunities, workforce development and trainings, resume creation, and educational opportunities.

Basic Needs

Direct in-kind support encompassing financial assistance, food, furniture, diapers, hygiene supplies, appliances, bus tickets, gift cards, household goods, toys, and beyond.

Benefits Support

Assistance in navigating issues with an active case or applying for SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, Cash Assistance, Child Care, Unemployment and SSI.

Healthcare

Assist in navigating the healthcare system including scheduling appointments, providing interpretation, transportation support, document translation, and more.

Cultural Support

Navigators represent the communities in which they serve, often becoming a community member's trusted voice. Aiding in navigating cultural and religious needs.

Newcomer Navigator Partners

Re:Source Cleveland

Rise Together

Nueva Luz Urban Resource Center