City of Newburyport Helps Bridge Communication Barriers with Pocketalk Translation Devices
July 23, 2025July 23, 2025
City of Newburyport Helps Bridge Communication Barriers with Pocketalk Translation Devices
The City of Newburyport is proud to announce the implementation of Pocketalk translation devices across several City departments, marking a significant step toward ensuring that all residents—regardless of the language they speak—can access City services with clarity, ease, and confidence.
These two-way handheld translation devices support communication in up to 82 languages, helping to eliminate barriers between City employees and residents whose primary language is not English.
“My administration is committed to fostering a sense of belonging and fairness for all residents and visitors,” said Mayor Sean Reardon. “These new devices are another way we’re improving access to City services and making sure every member of our community feels respected.”
The devices are already making an impact. Trish Boateng, Support Coordinator for Recreation and Youth Services, shared her experience:
“Using a Pocketalk device has been a game changer. It helps me build trust and connection with families. I can communicate important information, resolve misunderstandings, and ensure every family feels valued—no matter what language they speak. During a recent home visit with a Spanish-speaking family, the grandmother was visibly touched that we made the effort to communicate in her language. She said it was incredibly thoughtful, and I could see how much it meant to her.”
The Council on Aging has also begun using the devices, with positive results.
“We’ve already found the devices helpful at the Senior and Community Center,” said Sara Landry, Director of the Council on Aging. “This week, one of our bus drivers used a Pocketalk to communicate with a resident who speaks Albanian. It made a big difference.”
Over the coming weeks, more City departments will be trained in how to use the devices to further expand language access. The purchase and deployment of these devices is part of the City’s ongoing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Expanding language accessibility is a key pillar of the City’s DEI Action Plan, and the administration remains committed to removing barriers that prevent full participation in civic life.
For more information on the City’s DEI initiatives, please visit www.cityofnewburyport.com.
Media Contact:
Office of the Mayor
City of Newburyport
mayor@newburyportma.gov
(978) 465-4413
