“Having someone to talk to about my monthly budget and clarity and where I spend my money has helped. I have saved over $3,000 learning about where I spend my money and resolved over $15,000 in debt. The ongoing opportunity to talk to my counselor helps me stay on top of my finances.”LuciaWashtenaw FEC Client
“The rewarding part is when they come to me and say ‘I have reached my financial goals, and I am in a better situation.'”SoniaLansing FEC Counselor
“I had a goal of saving up to $15,000 by the end of the year to put toward my long-term goal of buying a house. I now have $18,500 and am soon going to be participating in homeownership classes. My counselor helped to motivate me to continue. It was just nice having someone in your corner cheering you on.”DanielaSouth Bend FEC Client
“I can already see my way out of the tunnel. If I continue to work hard, not only will I get out, I’ll also become empowered to accomplish goals that were dreams in the past.” EmilioNashville FEC Client
"As a result of working with my counselor, I was able to focus my attention and extra funds to paying off over $8,000 in credit card debt and build savings for personal investments within one year. He has been instrumental in deconstructing the negative beliefs I've built overtime and helped me see that things I want are attainable, I just have to plan for them.”NandeColumbus FEC Client
"My meetings with [my FEC counselor] are something I actually look forward to. She has helped me to understand the importance of what we are working on and keeps me focused. Our meetings always end with a genuine smile on my face. Thank you to my counselor and thank you to the City of San Francisco for offering this free service."WilliamSan Francisco FEC Client

Partner Voices

“The City of Sacramento’s Financial Empowerment Center is an integral part of our inclusive economic development work, which aims to ensure that all Sacramentans have the resources, support, and access necessary to build financial health. In collaboration with our workforce, small business, and housing teams, as well as other City staff and community organizations, institutions, and leaders, we develop partnerships to help people connect with free financial coaching relevant to their personal goals.” – Amy Williamson, Manager, Financial Empowerment at City of Sacramento

“The City of San Antonio’s Financial Empowerment Center is a key resource for residents, providing trusted, one-on-one financial counseling to support long-term financial stability. Through individualized services, the FEC addresses the underlying causes of financial instability and works alongside clients to help break generational patterns of financial insecurity in the community. This personalized approach complements existing city programs and advances San Antonio’s broader goals related to opportunity, financial resilience, and community well-being.” – Krystal Bermea, Financial Counselor & Family Support Supervisor, City of San Antonio

“Through financial coaching and counseling, Greenville Financial Empowerment Center staff support residents in stabilizing household finances, strengthening housing stability, and increasing local economic participation, which in turn advances community growth.” – Yvonne Duckett, Executive Director, Greenville County Human Relations Commission

“The Paterson Financial Empowerment Center has had tremendous success since its launch in 2021. It has helped our residents reduce their debt, build savings, establish and improve credit, connect to safe and affordable bank accounts, and access additional financial support during an uncertain time.” – Mayor Andre Sayegh, Paterson, New Jersey

“At the Mount Vernon Financial Empowerment Center, we’re equipping residents with tools to build a brighter financial future. This partnership marks a major step in addressing economic disparities and helping families not just get by—but thrive.” – Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, Mount Vernon, NY

“I’m incredibly proud of the work of the Gaithersburg FEC and the way it uplifts all City residents. I want our City to be a place where everyone can thrive, regardless of the color of their skin, where they were born, how much they earn, or how wealthy their parents were. The FEC is helping our most vulnerable residents find their financial footing, so they can take advantage of all the opportunities our City has to offer. It’s leveling the playing field and making this community a better place for everyone.” – Mayor Jud Ashman, Gaithersburg, MD