United Way of Bucks County, in partnership with Penn Community Bank, the County of Bucks and Credit Counseling Center, is piloting a new financial stability program called LIFT United. The program aims to help eligible residents increase their financial literacy, improve their credit scores and secure low-interest used car loans.
LIFT United, which stands for “Learn to Invest in Your Future and Thrive,” is designed to support ALICE (Asset Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households in Bucks County.
“It’s a challenging time for our ALICE families,” said P.J. O’Brien, impact director for financial stability at United Way of Bucks County. “The pandemic hit them hard, and now they’re struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. LIFT United will ensure that they have safe, reliable transportation to get to work, at a manageable cost.”
Credit Counseling Center will offer free financial literacy courses and one-on-one budget coaching for program participants. Successful participants will receive a down payment match of up to $1,000 and a low-interest car loan secured by United Way. All loans are offered by Penn Community Bank.
“At Penn Community Bank, we’re committed to helping families reach their financial goals, including those in the ALICE population,” said Bernard Tynes, senior vice president and director of marketing at Penn Community Bank. “LIFT United is an innovative way to help working families remain financially stable now and in the future. We’re proud to partner with United Way, the county and Credit Counseling Center on this exciting new initiative.”
All applicants to LIFT United must be referred by United Way’s Member Agencies. For eligibility requirements and more information, contact P.J. O’Brien at patricko@uwbucks.org.
