A new free service through Marinette County Public Health is helping residents find, and actually access, the community resources they need.

Navigating assistance programs can be overwhelming, especially when someone is already struggling with housing, transportation, insurance or other basic needs.

Marinette County Public Health’s new Community Resource Navigator service offers residents one-on-one help through that process.

Community Health Educator Megan Mueller says the service is available to people throughout the Marinette and Menominee area.

The free service can help residents identify programs, make phone calls, complete applications and connect directly with agencies that specialize in particular needs.

Mueller says the goal is more than simply handing someone a phone number.

Assistance may include housing, transportation, health insurance, food benefits, medical care and other community services. Mueller also follows up with residents to make sure they were able to use the resources and determine whether additional barriers remain.

The navigator holds office hours through Marinette County Public Health and also visits the Stephenson Public Library and Niagara Public Library.

Appointments can also be arranged by calling Marinette County Public Health at 715-732-7670.

The service is funded by the Provident Health Foundation.

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