The Child Center of NY Benefits Access program serves low-income individuals and families across New York City, including single-parent households, immigrants, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families experiencing housing and food insecurity. Many of their clients live in high-cost neighborhoods where rising rent, limited access to affordable healthcare, and economic instability create ongoing stress. Clients often face barriers such as language access needs, limited digital literacy, inconsistent internet or phone access, and difficulty navigating complex NYC public benefit systems.
The Benefits Access program uses UniteUs by WholeYouNYC to conduct Social Care Network (SCN) services that connect NYC residents to critical benefits and community resources. These services include SNAP (formerly known as food stamps), Medicaid, cash assistance, housing and utility assistance referrals, childcare resources, and other supportive services. Their screeners engage directly with clients to assess household needs, identify benefit eligibility, and document barriers impacting stability. Navigators then support clients through the referral process, assist with applications, provide follow-up, and coordinate warm handoffs with community partners to ensure continuity of care.
Through their SCN services, clients have gained increased access to food assistance, healthcare coverage, and financial support, leading to improved household stability and reduced stress. Many clients report feeling empowered after receiving one-on-one guidance through systems that often feel overwhelming. “Sometimes all a client needs is someone to explain things clearly and follow up," says Diana Sauceda, Capacity Building Navigator at the Jamaica Family Wellness Center. "That one-on-one support can change their whole experience.”
In 2026, they plan to strengthen staff training, improve follow-up systems, deepen partnerships with NYC-based organizations, and expand capacity to meet growing community needs.
