Vermont’s migration patterns are shifting, with increasing numbers of newly arrived and non-agricultural, Spanish-speaking migrant workers settling in rural areas. These changes have revealed significant gaps in the state’s ability to deliver culturally and linguistically appropriate health care. Systems designed primarily for agricultural workers are no longer sufficient to meet the evolving health care needs of diverse immigrant populations.

This initiative, led by the UVM Extension’s Migrant Health Program is enhancing the capacity of Vermont’s Community Health Worker (CHW) network to respond to this moment. The Migrant Health Program provides training for CHWs across the state to build shared understanding of new migration patterns, legal issues, and health and social needs of migrant workers.  

As a result of this project, three CHWs serving rural areas with growing immigrant populations are now positioned as regional resource and referral experts and able to guide newcomers through complex health care systems and connect them to critical services.

“Though we are still learning, we are being contacted by other organizations requesting support to increase their knowledge about how to serve new arrivals. This communication has strengthened relationships and rapport in a way that allows us to better advocate for clients.” - Naomi Wolcott-MacCausland, UVM Extension Migrant Health Coordinator

UVM Extension Migrant Health Programs address barriers to health care faced by migrant workers and their families

Vermont Department of Health Community Health Workers offer community-based health education, referrals and liaison services for the public.