A Healthier Future for NYC's Migrant Community

Lortashia Smith, Project Renewal Clinic Office Manager, connected newly-arriving migrants to health care.

Amid New York City’s unprecedented influx of migrants, Project Renewal quickly stepped up to welcome newly-arriving individuals and connect them to vital health care.

In the fall of 2022, we shifted our operations at a shelter-based medical clinic in Brooklyn to serve as a health intake center for migrants arriving in New York City. Our team provided triage services to 3,350 individuals over the past year, made possible by a generous grant from Trinity Church Wall Street.

Project Renewal’s staff tirelessly assessed up to 40 people a day—double the number of patients typically seen at the clinic. All new arrivals received tuberculosis testing and were given access to HIV screenings, vaccinations, medication refills, and referrals to longer-term treatment.

“I’m proud to have been there to support people as they start their new lives in New York City,” says Lortashia Smith, Clinic Office Manager. “Many of them left homes and careers, walked 10,000 miles with sores on their feet, and dealt with traumatic circumstances—yet they arrived with palpable energy, eagerness to work, and hope for the future,” added Naquan White, Clinic Outreach Specialist.

The team offered a listening ear and compassionate care, using Google Translate to overcome language barriers when needed. In addition to health resources, they provided shoes, clothing, and other basic necessities. “Our staff rose to the occasion. I am so proud of their resourcefulness and flexibility,” said Dr. Miranda Von Dornum, Project Renewal’s Chief Medical Officer.

The clinic has recently returned to regular operations, but Project Renewal continues to provide migrants with housing, health care, and case management services.