Financial Coaching provides "fulfilling" experiences

Our Financial Literacy and Debt Counseling initiative — made possible through a Massachusetts Division of Banks grant — is designed to increase participants’ financial literacy and health while reducing overall debt. The program continues to grow, and we’re proud to highlight just some of the successes. 

Many of our clients are working to improve their credit scores and learning to budget, so we created personalized repayment strategies for each client based on their current financial picture. Two clients were able to pay off overdue balances to utility companies, meanwhile, all of our clients now have access a free annual credit report allowing them to monitor their progress.

Four clients will complete the four-month coaching program next month. 

“The greatest highlight thus far has been clients gaining a sense of control over their finances!” said WCHR Executive Director Jennifer Schanck-Bolwell.

One recent graduate, Christina, shared her “fulfilling” experience with the program. “Prior to enrolling in WCHR’s Financial Coaching program, my finances felt scattered. My primary goals were to build a budget and improve my credit score,” said Christina. “I also specifically chose this program because I was inspired to work with a woman of color in the financial field, WCHR’s financial coach Tamara Matama (above).”

Christina’s biggest achievements were paying off credit card debt, learning about credit utilization and the process of purchasing a car.

Our financial literacy and debt counseling program is made possible through a grant from the Massachusetts Division of Banks. We are grateful for their partnership and support.

WCHR to Transform 12 Congress Street Property in Historic Worcester Neighborhood

WCHR was recently appointed receivership of 12 Congress St. in Worcester’s historic Crown Hill neighborhood. The .15 acre plot of land has been abandoned for a decade.

As we continue our community revitalization work, WCHR is committed to working alongside our partners in state government who share our mission to provide affordable housing for  Worcester County residents.

“I am thrilled that Worcester Community Housing Resources is taking the lead in revitalizing the long-neglected Congress Street property. Our city needs all the support it can get in developing additional affordable housing and WCHR has really stepped up to address that critical need," said State Representative Mary Keefe. 

As receiver, WCHR will work to correct code violations and improve the property. To aid in this revitalization effort, WCHR has applied for grant funding to create new homeownership opportunities. If successful, the grant funding will enable WCHR to offer two owner-occupied units at 12 Congress street and allow for a greater level of rehabilitation. Landscaping and cleanup work is already underway at the site.