Today’s economic situation reflects a severe lack of financial preparedness, an inability to navigate everyday financial situations from purchasing a home to retirement. Increasingly, consumers need to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate a complex economic marketplace and achieve lifetime financial security. As a result, there is an increased need to raise a financially literate society both in young and older adults. Prairie View A&M University’s Cooperative Extension Program (CEP) seeks to be both proactive and empowering to individuals who face a job loss, limited income or resources as they transition their lives.

Recognizing the need to provide educational services to Houston’s homeless and addicted men, Harbor Light Center-Salvation Army Men’s Unit has partnered with CEP’s Alfredo Alberto, Harris County Extension Agent, to conduct a series on Money Management. Ms. Jennifer Garza, Family and Consumer Sciences Program Specialist, led the first session, “Budgeting,” on October 6, 2017. Participants learned what a budget is as well as the components of a budget. They also learned shopping strategies for food, clothing, and necessities of life. Lastly, individuals learned how to access community resources.

In all, individuals enhanced their knowledge of budgeting and money management with this class. In a matter of time, the series will empower and encourage participants to live and adhere to their budgets for them to see their money grow and benefit their lifestyles.

Jennifer Garza
Jennifer Garza
Program Specialist
(936) 261-5113
jegarza@pvamu.edu