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A New 8-Week Program + New Budgeting Tools for Financial Futures

By Programs & Partnerships

We’re thrilled to share two important updates that reflects our commitment to making financial education more accessible to women in our community – a new 8-week program for Financial Futures and a new digital budgeting tool with premium features. 

Note For Our Volunteers:  

Here is the  WMM New Curriculum & My Finances Training Video — a great resource to help you prepare for your sessions.

 

A New 8-week Curriculum for Financial Futures!

After listening carefully to feedback from both participants and volunteers, we’ve redesigned our Financial Futures program into a streamlined 8-week curriculum. This was an opportunity to keep our content current, integrate our new My Finances tools, and make sessions even more engaging with added breakout sessions.

The new curriculum is action-oriented, focusing on practical exercises and hands-on learning rather than theory, so participants can immediately apply what they’re learning. This represents a shift from our previous 12-week format, and we couldn’t be more excited about the potential impact.

We’re also introducing early volunteer–participant matching, which means volunteers will be paired with participants before the first session. Signing up early ensures you can take full advantage of this opportunity to connect with your participant, understand her goals, and start building trust before the program begins.

Why the Change?

Your voices matter, and we heard you! The feedback was clear: while our content was valuable, the 12-week commitment was sometimes a barrier for busy women juggling work, family, and other responsibilities. Many potential participants and volunteers expressed interest but hesitated due to the longer time commitment.

At the same time, our curriculum was due for a refresh. The result is an 8-week program that’s focused, practical, and better aligned with the needs of both participants and volunteers.

What This Means

Our new 8-week format maintains all the essential financial literacy content while creating a more manageable commitment for everyone involved. We believe this change will:

  • Increase participation by removing time barriers that prevented women from joining
  • Attract more volunteers who can now more easily fit our program into their schedules
  • Maintain program quality with focused, impactful sessions
  • Create more program cycles throughout the year, reaching even more women

 

Introducing Our New Digital Budgeting Tool: My Finances

We have another exciting announcement! In addition to our streamlined curriculum, we’re launching a brand-new digital budgeting tool designed specifically for Women’s Money Matters participants.

Built by Us, For Us

This isn’t just another budgeting app. After hearing repeated requests from participants and volunteers who wanted something more sophisticated than Excel spreadsheets but tailored to our program’s approach, we’ve developed a custom solution that combines the best features of premium financial tools (like Mint or Monarch) with the specific needs of our community.

What Makes It Special?

Our new budgeting tool offers:

  • Full-featured functionality with all the capabilities you’d expect from premium budgeting software
  • Custom integration with our 8-week curriculum topics and exercises
  • Privacy-focused design built specifically for our participants
  • User-friendly interface designed with feedback from women in our programs
  • Seamless program integration that reinforces learning from each session

The Perfect Complement

This tool will work hand-in-hand with our new 8-week format, giving participants a practical way to immediately apply what they’re learning. Instead of struggling with generic spreadsheets or apps that don’t align with our teaching approach, participants will have a powerful, purpose-built tool to support their financial journey.

Thank you to our community of Volunteers for the feedback, testing, and engagement that has contributed to these new initiatives.  Together, we’re making financial literacy more accessible, one woman at a time.

 

Learn more about our Programs and see the Upcoming Start Dates here

 

August 28, 2025
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Recycled Rides: A New Partnership with WMM and a New Car for Jazzmine

By Programs & Partnerships, In The News

Thanks to a new partnership between Women’s Money Matters and National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides, WMM graduate Jazzmine recently received a car donated through GEICO. This network of support and collaboration helped her achieve one of her biggest personal goals: reliable transportation for herself and her daughter.

“I tried to sit down and write a whole professional script… but what I realized is that it’s best to speak from the heart. All I’ve ever wanted was a good car for my daughter and I to drive—to get to work, do laundry, and go grocery shopping. 

Women’s Money Matters changed my life completely.”

When Jazzmine first found Women’s Money Matters through a Google search for “women’s financial help,” she was hoping for guidance. What she found was something much more powerful: a community.

“The first thing I saw on the website was ‘Empowering Women.’ The more I read, the more I realized I could be part of something supportive. I signed up, even though I felt embarrassed. As a single mother, I didn’t want to admit that I needed help understanding things like a credit report or how to manage money better.”

But Jazzmine showed up anyway and opened the door to a new chapter.

“At our first meeting, I realized I wasn’t the only one who wanted a better understanding of finances. The more we talked, the more I felt seen and supported.”

With the support of her WMM 1:1 volunteer coach, Jazzmine set financial goals, learned new skills, and built confidence in herself. One of her biggest goals? Reliable transportation for herself and her daughter — a simple need with a life-changing impact.

“My coach became a great friend, helped me create goals, and saw me through until the end. She stayed in contact with me, even after I graduated. I want to thank both of you for fighting for me, for helping me get the resources I needed to make this happen.”

That goal recently became reality.  WMM program graduates are eligible for extended opportunities,  such as car donations through our partnerships. 

We recently partnered with NABC Recycled Rides — a national program that donates restored vehicles to individuals and families in need —  and Jazzmine received the keys to a car of her own.

The car was generously donated by GEICO — the largest vehicle donor to NABC Recycled Rides®, with over 1,000 vehicles contributed to the program to date. It was expertly restored by Danilchuk Auto Body, a family-owned business that has served the Boston area for nearly 40 years and consistently steps up to support local communities. The vehicle was presented with the support of NABC Recycled Rides®, Enterprise Holdings, Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr., the City of Revere, Mayor Michelle Wu’s Office, and other local advocates.

Since its founding in 2007, the NABC Recycled Rides® program has donated more than 3,500 vehicles valued at over $51 million to individuals and families across the country — helping ensure that reliable transportation is not a barrier to stability.

We’re so proud of Jazzmine — not just for achieving this milestone, but for everything she’s done to build a more secure future for her family. Her story is a powerful reminder that when women have the support, knowledge, and tools they need, they create lasting change — not just for themselves, but for their children and communities too.

“You answered every question I had, helped me fill out paperwork, and helped my dream come true. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Jazzmine behind the wheel of her new car.


Hannah Mikol, WMM Volunteer Coordinator, Jazzmine, and Bernadette Wheeler, WMM Chief Program Officer.

 

To learn more about our financial wellness programs for women and girls, connect directly with our Program Team through text or email: 617-297-7376 or programs@womensmoneymatters.org

June 24, 2025
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May Volunteer Coach Spotlights: Angelina

By Volunteer Spotlight, Programs & Partnerships

Our volunteer coaches are the heart of Women’s Money Matters’ unique programs. More than workshops, our programs match participants with dedicated mentors who commit to a full three months of connection, support, and encouragement. We have profound gratitude for the thoughtful, consistent care demonstrated by our volunteer coaches. As part of a monthly series,  we’re highlighting several outstanding coaches and giving them an opportunity to share their experiences with our wider community.

Thank you Angelina and Claudia! 

Coaching and Community: Angelina and Claudia’s Story

 

When Claudia enrolled in the Financial Futures program in 2023, she “dove into the ocean of knowledge” with the support of her coach, Angelina. What began as a coaching relationship transformed into friendship. After the program ended, they stayed connected, and when the Road to Retirement program opened up,  they jumped at the chance to work together again. Here’s their story.

Claudia:. In the beginning, I was nervous to be working with someone so knowledgeable, but then I saw it as a great opportunity to learn and grow. Outside of the environment of the WMM program, we always stayed connected about what was happening in our lives, always transmitting that positive vibe and mutual support. She has been checking my progress thoroughly, filling me with information and resources, and communicating with me constantly. 

Through the program, I have improved my credit score. I have more tools to manage my financial life, and I made a new and extraordinary friend. Besides that, resting peacefully without debts is a beautiful privilege that I want to maintain.

It has been satisfying to be part of the WMM community, just the fact of meeting with different women who are struggling with financial issues and seeing how they are fighting to resolve, sharing experiences, and giving away advice on how to prevent others from doing the same, have caused a big impact on my perspective. And one of the things I have implemented in my daily life is the vision board, which helps me to follow and track my goals.

“Be honest and sincere with yourself and those around you. Do not lose your naturalness and absorb as much knowledge as you can. Do not be afraid to dive into the ocean of knowledge, where you will not only learn how to build better and more secure economic well-being, but you will also create wonderful bonds of friendship.”

 

 

Angelina: Claudia and I hit it off immediately. She was very open and honest about what she wanted to learn and gain from the program and the coaching. Our personalities matched each other very well and we knew that we could share openly with one another. My first impression: I felt like we had been friends for a long time already. I was the lucky one who had someone who wanted to excel and learn as much as she could about money and education for her family…she was impressive.

We really became friends and stayed in contact with each other when the program ended. She had a child during our cohort and I felt like a big sister giving her advice along the way. We developed a relationship of trust and admiration. We shared calls, texts, pictures, I sent articles and links with info I knew she would like, and we had a few virtual chats along the way since 2023. We encouraged one another often. When I learned about Road to Retirement, I quickly asked if she was interested in joining, and that led to us being paired together again. Yay!

Honestly, she inspires me! I feel like a proud big sister watching Claudia grow and take it all in.  She always has a hunger for more knowledge and asks questions to gain better understanding. Seeing the progress that she’s made in the last 1.5 years makes me proud because she implements everything she’s learned yet still wants to learn more. I realize how valuable coaching is, and I want to see her achieve her goals and dreams. 

She is the epitome of a star student, who is raising a baby, tending her home, was working full time until she had her baby, taking classes and getting certifications. She is determined to succeed, and nothing is going to stop her.

Advice for Other Coach-Participant Pairs

Claudia: “Be honest and sincere with yourself and those around you. Do not lose your naturalness and absorb as much knowledge as you can. Even if you already know things, there is always something new to learn and improve. Do not be afraid to dive into the ocean of knowledge, where you will not only learn how to build better and more secure economic well-being, but you will also create wonderful bonds of friendship.

Angelina: Always be honest and encouraging. Remember that we all face battles in this life. Listen and lift each other up with positive words and affirmations. The learning goes both ways, not just from Coach to Participant. The personal reward of giving back to other women is powerful. Making new friendships, learning new things from others, and just the joy of being part of such a wonderful group of women empowering one another is priceless.

May 29, 2025
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April Volunteer Coach Spotlights: Vicky and Gabriela

By Programs & Partnerships

Our volunteer coaches are the heart of Women’s Money Matters’ unique programs. More than workshops, our programs match participants with dedicated mentors who commit to a full three months of connection, support, and encouragement.

We have profound gratitude for the thoughtful, consistent care demonstrated by our volunteer coaches. During April’s Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re highlighting several outstanding coaches and giving them an opportunity to share their experiences with our wider community.

Thank you Vicky and Gabriela! 

Volunteer Spotlights in April

 

“Last November, following my mother’s passing, I discovered Women’s Money Matters while searching for a meaningful volunteer opportunity to fill the void in my life.

This organization has proven to be the perfect fit, allowing me to share financial knowledge instilled by my mom and refined through my three decades in the financial industry. In her memory, I’m deeply honored to serve as a volunteer coach for Women’s Money Matters, supporting its mission to empower women and girls to transform their financial situations and build brighter, more secure futures.” Vicky Vergara

 

“This organization has proven to be the perfect fit, allowing me to share financial knowledge instilled by my mom and refined through my three decades in the financial industry.”

 

 

“I believe everyone has the power to achieve their goals and make their dreams come true. But we can’t do that alone. We may be missing information, or a sounding board for our ideas, or we simply may need someone to walk with us on our empowerment journey. That is when coaching comes in. 
 
And that is why I love coaching. Coaches can listen, support, and help unleash participants’ power. But the beauty of coaching is that it is a two-way street. As a coach, I am constantly inspired by WMM program participants, those real-life warriors who are building a better financial future for themselves and their loved ones with determination, creativity and grace.
 
I am thankful for this community, including the amazing WMM staff, participants and coaches. Our work is about achieving financial health, but ultimately, it is about improving lives, one financial decision at a time.” Gabriela Mondino
 

“Coaches can listen, support, and help unleash participants’ power. But the beauty of coaching is that it is a two-way street.”  

April 22, 2025
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April Volunteer Coach Spotlights: Ramonia and Adekunbi

By Programs & Partnerships

Our volunteer coaches are the heart of Women’s Money Matters’ unique programs. More than workshops, our programs match participants with dedicated mentors who commit to a full three months of connection, support, and encouragement.

We have profound gratitude for the thoughtful, consistent care demonstrated by our volunteer coaches. During April’s Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re highlighting several outstanding coaches and giving them an opportunity to share their experiences with our wider community.

Thank you Ramonia and Adekunbi!

Volunteer Spotlights in April

 

“I have been a Life and Empowerment Coach for the last 12 years and I absolutely love motivating, coaching and empowering others. Though I’m very intrinsically motivated at heart, due to my prayer life and spiritual relationship with God, I still have my human moments.  I’ve learned over the years that when life gets busy and challenging,  it can be hard to stay motivated. I love reminding others that we are all a collective, although we have individual experiences. We are all in this together.  Without extension, there will be extinction. 

My first coaching experience with WMM was amazing – I was given tools and information by the mentors that were my support team during my cohort at WMM. These ladies are wonderful,  including Liz, Ariana, and Nancy.  They are a part of the collective that I am speaking of.  Remember, there is a strength even in our struggle. Have an amazingly blessed and beautiful day!”  Ramonia Henderson 

 

Ramonia Henderson ​​​​​​

“I strive to sprinkle a little of my kindness glitter wherever I go, to whoever I encounter.”

“I chose to become a financial coach because I knew my story could touch at least one woman’s heart, showing her that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am a living testimony of that journey.

As a first-time coach, I embraced empathy, accommodation, and relationship-building.  I knew the only way to enrich my mentee’s life and be a successful coach was to make her feel comfortable and authentic with me. I shared my personal stories to give her hope, worked at her pace, and encouraged her even when she felt others were progressing faster. I reminded her that her journey is unique and that reaching her goals at her own pace is what matters most.  

Today, she is flourishing. Our coaching sessions lasted three months, but the bond we formed continues to blossom. She is now in a place where she can create a better future for herself and her children, and with the knowledge she gained, she can educate her children and pay it forward to others around her.”  Adekunbi Ajayi

Adekunbi Ajayi

“Just as a day transitions from morning to night, our challenges will pass. The storm will calm, and after the rain comes the rainbow.”

April 8, 2025
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WMM Graduates Receive Reliable Transportation with ‘Second Chance Cars’

By Programs & Partnerships

Brooke’s Car Award at Second Chance Cars, April 2025

 

When it is time for a car award at Second Chance Cars, Dan Holin likes to gather the “community of goodness” in his office and pause. The community he’s referring to includes the donor of a car to his organization, the recipient of the car, the mechanics, and the organizations and sponsors who facilitated the connections.

Sitting in a circle in his light-filled office, he opens by saying, “I like to take a deliberate effort to pause on a happy moment.”

He encourages the circle of people to tell the story of what led to this moment. “Most of us live in spaces that have people that are like us, people that we have known for a while, people that come from the same social circles. But these car award events bring people who likely would have never come together into the same room. So at a minimum, it’s interesting, and at the outside, it’s rewarding and fun. So this is another reason to pause.  And it never fails in these kinds of meetings that we discover what we have in common.”

The circle gathered for Brooke and her family included Women’s Money Matters. A year ago, Brooke enrolled in a three-month financial wellness program with WMM and was paired with a personal coach. Brooke impressed her coach, Suzanne, with her dedication to learn and take advantage of the opportunity to manage her finances with the next level of skill and planning. Suzanne was so impressed by Brooke’s determination and progress that she drafted a personal recommendation for her to be eligible for a car award through Second Chance Cars.

Brooke’s personal story includes years of profound challenges, and at 50, she has accomplished a personal transformation that includes over 15 years of sobriety, reconnection with her children and family stability, and the beginning of a new career in relief work. Through the Open Sky Community Services, she has trained as a mental health worker and is poised to begin a new job in a shelter.

Her face beams with warmth and joy as she describes how excited she is to enter work every day as a supportive and encouraging presence for others who are struggling.

With the new job comes the new challenge of transportation, and this is where Second Chance Cars comes in to help. One of the criteria in selecting applicants is the need for transportation to work, “Let’s get to work” being one of their taglines. Brooke’s WMM coach, Suzanne, crafted her recommendation, and the team at Second Chance Cars worked with them to review the financial options and details.

“I have no debt, but I also have no credit, and this car is providing much more than transportation to my new job.” With an interest-free loan, Brooke’s credit score will increase, opening more options for the future.

This is the synergy of factors that is needed to truly support someone as they work to overcome the challenges, stay positive, and transform their financial future.

It takes the circle of goodness, a mix of mission-driven organizations, and individuals who are determined to make a difference.

Holin’s invitation to pause on a happy moment had all of the elements of a new beginning—gratitude, tears, a network of community support, and the keys to a reliable car for the road ahead.

See the video Dan recorded for Brooke’s car award on YouTube

Carla Poulos, Senior Manager of Programs & Advocacy, worked closely with Brooke’s WMM coach to move through the application for Second Chance Cars.


Dan Holin together with Brooke’s family next to their new-to-them Prius.


The donors of the Prius and Brooke connect over a shared background in social work.

 

To learn more about our financial wellness programs for women and girls, connect directly with our Program Team through text or email: 617-297-7376 or programs@womensmoneymatters.org

April 6, 2025
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Women’s Money Matters Welcomes A New Board Member

By Programs & Partnerships

Imran Malek

 Women’s Money Matters, a non-profit dedicated to empowering women to improve their financial health to create a more secure future for their families and communities, with a vision of a world in which all women have a financially stable life, is pleased to welcome the newest addition to its Board of Directors, Imran Malek. 

Imran Malek is an accomplished Mergers and Acquisitions attorney at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in Boston. His practice focuses on large corporate transactions, with a specialization in the biotech and technology sectors. Imran’s extensive experience in these fields will be a valuable asset to our organization as we continue to strive towards our mission of providing financial empowerment and support to women and girls from low-income backgrounds.

In addition to his corporate expertise, Imran is deeply committed to community service. He dedicates a significant portion of his time as a pro bono attorney for small businesses and non-profits, aligning closely with our organization’s values and our commitment to fostering financial stability for underserved communities.

Before embarking on his legal career, Imran worked as a software engineer and product manager at several startups in Boston. This background in technology and entrepreneurship gives him a unique perspective that will greatly enhance our board’s strategic discussions and initiatives.

We are confident that Imran’s diverse experiences and dedication to community service will strengthen Women’s Money Matters.  Please join us in welcoming Imran Malek to the Women’s Money Matters Board of Directors. We look forward to his contributions and the exciting opportunities ahead.

 

About Women’s Money Matters:

Women’s Money Matters builds the financial wellness, confidence, and security of women living on low incomes through a unique program that combines instructional workshops and personal, one-to-one coaching. For more information about Women’s Money Matters and its programs, please visit https://womensmoneymatters.org/

July 24, 2024
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Women’s Money Matters Graduate Speaks on Cliff Effects Pilot in the Boston Globe

By Advocacy, Programs & Partnerships

Women’s Money Matters Graduate Speaks on Cliff Effects Pilot in the Boston Globe

One of Women’s Money Matters’ dedicated graduates and passionate advocates was recently featured in the The Boston Globe! She shared her insights on our upcoming collaborative initiative, the Bridge to Prosperity program – a collaborative effort between Women’s Money Matters, Springfield Works, and partners including Boston Medical Center, Department of Transitional Assistance, Western Mass Economic Development Council, and The Western Massachusetts Food Bank. This effort aims to address the cost-of-living gap for Boston residents with funding from The Boston Foundation.

The Bridge to Prosperity program tackles the “Cliff Effect,” where increased income can lead to the loss of public assistance like food, childcare, and housing support, often leaving families worse off despite earning more. This issue discourages families from accepting raises or promotions as it can leave them worse off financially – impacting their financial stability. The program supports working women and families with cash bridge payments and 1:1 coaching, plus a potential savings bonus for achieving long-term goals.

Ariela Reynoso’s story embodies the resilience and determination that the Bridge to Prosperity program aims to support. Balancing multiple jobs while raising her son, Ariela illustrates the determination and resilience needed to navigate the system. Her experience underscores the impact financial empowerment can have, highlighting the pivotal role of community support and personalized coaching in building success.

Join us in looking forward to Ariela’s journey and the impact the Bridge to Prosperity program can have in making a difference to those on a path to economic security.

Read the full Boston Globe article here.

 

About Women’s Money Matters:

Women’s Money Matters builds the financial wellness, confidence, and security of women living on low incomes through a unique program that combines instructional workshops and personal, one-to-one coaching. For more information about Women’s Money Matters and its programs, please visit https://womensmoneymatters.org/

July 15, 2024
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Graduates Testify About the Cliff Effects at Massachusetts State House

By Programs & Partnerships, Advocacy

Graduates Testify About the Cliff Effects at Massachusetts State House

Watch the powerful testimonies of WMM graduates Ariela and Jami at the Massachusetts State House as they courageously share their stories and the challenges they face. Their experiences highlight the struggles faced by many women in WMM financial wellness programs and countless families impacted by the public benefit cliff.

The “Cliff effect” happens when a slight increase in wages results in a disproportionate loss of public benefits, leaving families worse off despite earning more. Ariela and Jami’s testimonies bring to light the real-life implications of this issue.

Ariela shared, “I wake up exhausted every day to get my son ready for school. Make him lunch, making sure I don’t overdo it with his food or snacks because I’m not sure if I will be able to afford any food the following week.” She went on to describe the difficult balancing act she faces: “If I try to apply to DTA for food stamps I will get a denial letter because I make ‘too much money’ but where is that money? WIC is next in line where I am going to get cut off because I make too much money but yet I am still struggling.”

At Women’s Money Matters, we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on. We proudly promote the Bridge to Prosperity Pilot Program, which aims to provide crucial support for families at risk of falling “off” the cliff. This three-year pilot program is designed to ease the transition off public assistance while securing sustainable employment for up to 100 families throughout Massachusetts. Payments made through the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) help reduce the impact of cliff effects as workers transition out of governmental assistance programs. By testing a government solution to remove the impact of cliff effects and using data to prove that this policy incentivizes work while reducing costs to the Commonwealth, we hope to create a model for lasting change. The program also deploys a holistic 2 Generation/Whole Family model to ensure family success, incorporating career coaching, mentoring, financial education, and wellness counseling.

Ariela shared, “I wake up exhausted every day to get my son ready for school. Make him lunch, making sure I don’t overdo it with his food or snacks because I’m not sure if I will be able to afford any food the following week.” She went on to describe the difficult balancing act she faces: “If I try to apply to DTA for food stamps I will get a denial letter because I make ‘too much money’ but where is that money? WIC is next in line where I am going to get cut off because I make too much money but yet I am still struggling.”

Jami echoed these struggles, noting, “Without WIC, a small amount of food stamps, and the help of my parents, I couldn’t have provided enough food for my child.”

Ariela further highlighted the daily stress she endures, saying, “I drive my car to work and try not to do any special activities in between because who’s to say I’m going to have the $50 to fill up my gas tank? If I don’t have gas I won’t be able to get to any of my four jobs and if I can’t get to any of my four jobs where am I going to get any money from?” Despite working multiple jobs, she still struggles to make ends meet: “Right now, me having four jobs is not a walk in the park. I’m anxious that I may lose my Section 8 voucher because I’m ‘overqualified.’ But if they take my Section 8 voucher away, I will be right back in shelter but with a son this time around.”

A highlight of Jami’s testimony was her success story and the support she received from our programs: “Through Women’s Money Matters, I bought my own home, I also paid off my car loan, and my credit score is almost 800.”

Thank you for supporting our mission and standing with us as we work to address the cliff effects and promote financial empowerment for all.

Click here to watch the video and hear Ariela and Jami’s powerful testimonies.

 

May 21, 2024
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Women’s Money Matters and Second Chance Cars Partner to Provide the Gift of Mobility

By In The News, Programs & Partnerships

Women’s Money Matters has announced its partnership with Second Chance Cars, a nonprofit organization committed to positively impacting the lives of individuals facing financial challenges and supporting women living on low incomes. Second Chance Cars provides participants with greater mobility through this collaboration by giving our participants and graduates reliable used cars. They help people get, keep, or grow their jobs through affordable car ownership.

In a society where transportation is often a barrier for those with limited financial resources, Women’s Money Matters (WMM) and Second Chance Cars (SCC) recognize the importance of reliable transportation in accessing better opportunities, employment, and education. Danielle Piskadlo, Executive Director of Women’s Money Matters, shares, “We’re so fortunate to have this partnership with Second Chance Cars. Addressing this important need for reliable transportation contributes greatly to our mission of breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering women to achieve financial independence.”

Dan Holin, Executive Director of Second Chance Cars, said, “In 2023, our car recipients increased their annual incomes by 88% on average–from $24,000 to $45,000! This impact is due to a real collaboration with our car donors. Being able to change the lives of women living on low incomes in our community is our goal. Thanks to our partnership with Women’s Money Matters, we can now improve the lives of women and their families. Having a car will help women get better jobs and earn a stable income!”

Since our partnership with SCC started in Sept 2023, Women’s Money Matters has had five women from our financial wellness programs be recipients of cars. The first car recipient, Sarah, had a few obstacles in her path. Sarah escaped an abusive relationship, taking her three children to find refuge at The Front Door Agency. As she joined their transformational housing program, she had a dream burning inside her: “I want to stand on my own, provide for my family, and be financially secure.” In October 2022, she eagerly attended Women’s Money Matters Financial Futures sessions at the YMCA.

Sarah moved into her own apartment after completing housing support, but without a reliable vehicle, she struggled with carpooling. When she asked for help, Women’s Money Matters sponsored her into the Second Chance Cars program.  While getting back on her feet, lack of access to childcare led to the loss of her job, and she took on a lower-paying barista job to maintain some income. As Sarah went through the application process to be granted a car from SCC, she completed micro-electronics job training and successfully landed a job that doubled her salary. However, transportation was still a challenge. After finishing the application process and waiting for the perfect car to be donated, it was finally go-time, and there was news that there was a vehicle ready. Receiving this vehicle improved Sarah and her family’s lives in different ways.

Similarly, our most recent recipient, Lola, is a Women’s Money Matters graduate who received her license at the beginning of 2023. As a single mom of three kids, Lola knew that having a reliable source of transportation would significantly impact her life.

After getting accepted by Second Chance Cars, Lola was able to get a Toyota RAV4 from a donor who no longer drives. She was extremely grateful as she got a new job promotion requiring a reliable car. Lola was so grateful to both Women’s Money Matters and Second Chance Cars and the Greater Lowell Technical School students for all their hard work repairing and maintaining the vehicle.

Having a reliable source of transportation is not only empowering but life-changing. At Women’s Money Matters, we want our participants and graduates to have great opportunities and stability. Cars help women get to work, save time in caring for children, give freedom, and help provide a stable income

If you, or someone you know, is looking to donate their car, please reach out to Second Chance Cars. Our participants and graduates come from all different walks of life. By providing the gift of mobility, we can collectively contribute to a brighter future for these women and the community at large.

About Women’s Money Matters:

Women’s Money Matters builds the financial wellness, confidence, and security of women living on low incomes through a unique program that combines instructional workshops and personal, one-to-one coaching. For more information about Women’s Money Matters and its programs, please visit https://womensmoneymatters.org/

About Second Chance Cars:

Second Chance Cars’ mission is to mobilize low-income workforce members to better complete living wage jobs through affordable car ownership. For more information on Second Chance Cars and how to get involved, please visit https://secondchancecars.org/

February 27, 2024
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ABOUT US

Building the financial wellness, confidence, and security of women and girls living on low-incomes through a unique program that combines instructional workshops and personal, one-to-one coaching.

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Tax ID: 90-0688545

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Women’s Money Matters Inc.,
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T: 617-297-7376
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