GIVING PEOPLE A STEP UP

Participants identified their goals and got help with budgeting. Some made savings plans to start new businesses, and others received guidance to build better credit scores. Coaches helped people gain control of their money, decrease fear about finances, and plan for their future.

82% OF CLIENTS IMPROVED their savings, credit, or debt by 5% or more

“Giving back to the community by helping people complete their taxes is important to me, especially during a time of so much uncertainty,” said Esmeralda Garcia, a VITA Tax Preparer Volunteer. “It was my job to get people what they deserved back on their taxes. I saw so many very happy people!”

66% OF PARTICIPANTS saw improvement in ability to live on their incomes

ACCELERATING PATHWAYS TO THRIVE

A grant through the California Workforce Accelerator Fund helped sixteen women experiencing homelessness (or precariously housed) eliminate barriers and gain access to comprehensive services in support of their well-being. Participants worked with a success team comprised of staff from each agency area to create wellness, stability, and education or career plans. The women received small business advising, career counseling, cash assistance, mental health support, and financial coaching.

IMPACT AT A GLANCE:

OVER 200 community members connected to services

76% OF CLIENTS made at least 30% PROGRESS in one or more financial indicators: income, savings, credit, and debt - a 28% increase from last year

$128,000 got returned to the community through our free tax preparation services

80% OF PARTICIPANTS reported a stronger support network

26 PEOPLE grew their assets, including a car or home purchase

16 HOMELESS or precariously housed women worked as a cohort to increase self-confidence, financial stability, and build pathways to employment

Graduating Cohort

“I AM GRATEFUL AND THANKFUL TO HAVE BEEN a part of a program like this. It came at a critical time in my life. I was lacking motivation and the support I received was everything. It helped me to develop in a way where I feel positive about where I am going, what I want, and how to get there.

I’ve felt very supported and I’ll never forget Maricruz because of all the support she provided. Life is a circle and we have to move forward and move on and put into practice what we have learned. I am thankful and appreciative.”

-L. GIBSON, GRADUATE, ACCELERATING PATHWAYS TO THRIVE

“I HAVE NEVER BEEN TREATED SO KINDLY while having my taxes prepared. The preparer was so very fast. I couldn’t believe it. I used my refund to achieve my dream of opening my own janitorial business. It is just small now but I have big plans for my future now. ”

- T. ALPHONSE, SERVICES RECIPIENT, ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY