Jericho Road’s financial education programs, Financially Fit and City Roots, equip clients with basic knowledge in order to increase financial literacy and improve financial situations. Combining mentoring and small group or one-on-one education, our financial education programs utilize hands-on lessons to bridge the gap between clients and established financial institutions. These free programs are available to anyone in Western New York and are provided in multiple languages.

Financially Fit

The structure of Financially Fit is based on the level of financial knowledge held by those entering the program. Lessons range from the basics of American currency and hands-on sessions on how to use an ATM to higher-level concerns such as budgeting, banking, and credit score improvement. We are not hosting small group classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients can choose to meet one-on-one with a Financially Fit instructor virtually through Zoom or Google Meet, via a regular phone call, or in-person at a location that allows for proper social distancing. Instructors meet with clients wherever and however they feel most comfortable, as long as social distancing guidelines are followed.

City Roots

City Roots is a 12-week program for individuals and families interested in buying their first home. City Roots classes are currently on hiatus, but the program can be completed one-on-one with a City Roots instructor either remotely or through socially distant in-person sessions.

City Roots covers the first-time homebuying process in detail. Topics include the following:

• Saving for a home
• Applying for a mortgage
• Knowing and assembling your homebuying team
• Common mistakes to avoid

City Roots instructors can also assist with identifying and applying for first-time homebuyer programs and grants.