Area nonprofit offers classes, financial support to struggling families beginning Feb. 19

SOUTHFIELD — A local nonprofit is offering those struggling a chance to receive $2,500 through its ongoing “HarMoney” campaign.

Gesher Human Services, a Southfield-based nonprofit that provides a bridge to stability for those struggling financially, will offer a six-week virtual financial education class and open up applications for $2,500 for clearing debt or home down payments beginning Feb. 19.

They were able to continue the program this year thanks to a $50,000 grant from Huntington Bank.

Gesher said that since 2021, when the program began, 33 families have had their financial lives transformed, frequently seeing significant improvements in their credit scores and even having the ability to afford a down payment for purchasing a home. Participants must meet all program requirements and claim their grant within six months of the final session. To join the program, go to geshermi.org/harmoney.

Last year there were 19 participants in the program which is geared towards low to moderate income families (as defined by US Department of Housing and Urban Development) who have a credit score of 620 or below. The program, held every Monday at noon to allow people to join during their lunch period, focuses on improving financial health through budgeting, credit and money management, and savings advice.

“Interest rates remain elevated, food prices are high, and credit card debt remains one of the biggest issues we see in the financial education department,” Gesher’s Financial Education Manager Laltsha Cunningham said in a press release. “In prior years, families would use credit cards for ‘want’ purchases such as entertainment expenses or clothing, but now we see how many families get into a spiral of debt because of ‘need’ purchases. They need to use their credit cards for day-to-day expenses, even for household bills like electricity and gas.”

Cunningham explained that the program will help people understand their budget, provide advice on how to reach out to creditors, figure out payment options, look for ways to pay off debt and find credit cards with lower interest rates if necessary.