CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Monday, Nov. 16, 2020) – In partnership with national nonprofit organization the
Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund), the City of Charlotte and
Common Wealth Charlotte announced today the launch of a free Financial Navigators program to help residents navigate critical financial issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Financial Navigators will be available starting today, Nov. 16, to provide free guidance over the phone to help residents access programs and services to manage income disruptions and other financial concerns. Financial Navigators help residents one-on-one with:
Prioritizing daily living expenses like housing, food and insurance
Maximizing income through accessing benefits, emergency cash assistance and emergency loans
Managing debt, from credit cards and student loans to child support
Avoiding predatory scams
Budgeting for future loss of income
Accessing other social services such as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Services
Residents can access these remote services by completing the web form at
finnav.org/clt or calling 311 to sign up. The financial navigator will then send a short service agreement and call the client to begin their personal session. Services are available in English and Spanish and can be accessed Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Organizations across Charlotte can also refer clients directly to a financial navigator.
“In these uncertain times, we all need some help in coping with the unknowns of a global pandemic, especially when it relates to the impacts on our family finances,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. “With the guidance of Financial Navigators, Charlotte families will now have the ability to consult with experts in the field, to identify the best pathways to provide for their loved ones.”
The City of Charlotte is launching the Financial Navigators program in partnership with the CFE Fund, who provided grant funding along with significant technical assistance and training to launch the program in Charlotte and other cities and counties across the nation. The Financial Navigators initiative is supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the Citi Foundation, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and the Wells Fargo Foundation.
“Financial distress is a primary part of the COVID-19 crisis, and we’re pleased Mayor Vi Lyles and the City of Charlotte is making this a priority for residents,” said Jonathan Mintz, President and CEO of the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. “The Financial Navigators program will help residents assess and prioritize their financial concerns and get connected with the right resources.”
The City of Charlotte will offer these Financial Navigator services in partnership with Common Wealth Charlotte, who will provide the financial empowerment services.
“Financial instability causes enormous stress, and can result in trauma,” said Chuck Jones, Executive Director of Common Wealth Charlotte. “This trauma can sometimes be reduced, or even avoided, by having a listening ear and knowledgeable resource to provide answers to the critical questions. CWC is ready to provide that service.”