When health challenges come with social barriers—like affording food or getting to appointments—people often fall through the cracks, navigating multiple agencies and waitlists on their own. WholeYouNYC changes this by coordinating essential support through a single point of contact. Kevin, a New York City resident, experienced this difference firsthand when he connected with the program in early 2025. After losing his mother left him facing both mobility and financial challenges, having one navigator made all the difference. We spoke with him about his experience. His name has been changed to protect his privacy.
How did you hear about WholeYouNYC, and what made you want to reach out for support?
I heard about it because I got a letter from my insurance carrier, EmblemHealth, in January 2025. It told me that WholeYouNYC could help with a few things that I needed assistance with. I called the 1-800 number and got connected to Ray, my social care navigator.
What assistance did you need?
Initially, I needed some household items—pots and pans, a new microwave, which Ray helped me get. I also needed help with transportation. Late last year, Ray set up a car service to take me to food pantries, HRA buildings for SNAP applications, stuff like that. I was able to get assistance with food delivery to my door, which was another blessing.
You mentioned having mobility issues—how did the transportation support specifically help with managing your health?
Before, I was missing appointments because I just couldn't get there. My leg issues made it hard to use public transportation, and I couldn't afford car services on my own. Now with the rides Ray set up, I can get to my doctor regularly, pick up my prescriptions, and follow up on my treatments. It's made a real difference in keeping my health stable.
What was it like working with your WholeYouNYC Social Care Navigator?
Easy-peasy. I called Ray, he’d call me right back, or we’d talk via text, but he’d always get back to me right away. He’d always get in touch whenever he had information that benefitted me, and everything was a breeze. Like I said, he helped with transportation, pots, pans, and a microwave. Right now, he’s also in the process of helping me acquire a sofa. I’m very thankful—I have mobility issues, and financial issues, and my navigator Ray has gone above and beyond to help me. I hate to repeat myself, but I’m very appreciative. He calls me to check in as well, which relieves a lot of stress.
Looking back, what did it mean to have one program that helped coordinate everything instead of having to navigate everything on your own?
It was such a blessing at the time, it was so perfect, especially about the middle of last year, because I lost my mom. So, uh, more financial responsibility was laid upon me, and I didn't know how I was gonna figure it out. You know? Like I said, I didn't know the food and transportation spaces I had to go to get paperwork. Ray helped me get rides if I had to go to any government building, you know, landlord office, stuff like that. And everything, I don't know how it would have been possible without the Social Care Network.
What would you say to someone who might need help with food or transport, but they're kind of unsure about reaching out to WholeYouNYC?
I’d tell them, don't even give it a second thought. Do it. I actually passed on the information to a friend of mine. She said that she's been waiting for a response back. EmblemHealth is the reason I found out about WholeYouNYC, so I told her to look into it. I gave her the number. I hope you guys are able to help her too.
Need Support? If you're a Medicaid member in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens facing challenges with food, transportation, housing, or other essential needs, WholeYouNYC can help. Check your eligibility here or call 1-888-755-5045.
