NYSDOH reached out to the CHCANYS navigator program manager in early December 2024 inviting a navigator to present at the New York Labor Roadshow hosted by Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development on December 13th, 2024. Navigators Sarah Clerveau, serving Yates and Ontario counties, and Lacy Paige, serving Wayne County, attended the event. Sarah presented on behalf of NYSOH and CHCANYS.
The New York Labor Roadshow had hosted several presentations on pressing issues that every farm employer should understand. Speakers presented on topics such as overtime and payroll, union management and strategies, leadership and language opportunities, benefits including health insurance for farm employees, and housing management.
Sarah presented to an audience of approximately 120 people, consisting mostly of employers who run farms and employ workers of various immigration statuses. Sarah described program eligibility rules – with a focus on immigration rules – as well as options for small employers and individuals to enroll in coverage.
Since this event, Sarah was contacted by a farm in Clarence, Erie County. On January 7th with the help of Lacy Paige, Leah Alfieri, and CHCANYS newest navigator Casey Sigrist, CHANYS navigators were able to enroll 15 H2A workers in health insurance in one day. This collaboration will continue with other farms owned by this company throughout the state of New York.