Albuquerque Extends Financial Navigators Program

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The City of Albuquerque has extended the Financial Navigators Program through May 2022; that support is funded by Cities for Financial Empowerment, and has helped 424 participants manage their spending and connect with local service agencies that can help them cope with the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As our city continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, one of our administration’s priorities is to ensure the safety and well-being of our entire community,” said Mayor Tim Keller.

The program was launched in October 2020, after Cities for Financial Empowerment awarded funding to the city.

According to City Hall, the city contracted with New Mexico Dream Team and New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness, two local organizations to help reach out to the most marginalized and socially vulnerable communities, including immigrants and refugee families.

Individuals who participated in the program received referrals to state and local agencies that provide rental and utility assistance, legal help to avoid eviction, unemployment assistance, child care and Medicaid health insurance.

Isez Roybal, Project Manager for the City of Albuquerque’s Legal Policy Division, indicated that the program has helped residents assess and prioritize their financial concerns and connect with the resources they need.

“With the effects of the pandemic still lingering, people are still struggling to manage the constant changes affecting their financial security,” she said.

The partnership between Albuquerque and Cities for Financial Empowerment aims to support municipal efforts to improve household financial stability by leveraging opportunities for local government.

Cities for Financial Empowerment seeks to assist mayors and other local leaders to help families build assets and make the most of their financial resources.

Source: MEXICONOW Staff