The first cohort of the DeSales Community Development "Here To Stay" eviction prevention program graduated this past month with big success.
DeSales’ shared the most recent update in a recent Aug 24 newsletter:
“[The Here to Stay] program offers residents an alternative to eviction through a 3 month program that connects them to supportive services and financial coaching in order to regain stability. Not only did our first group of participants all avoid eviction, but they paid down their rental debt by an average of $1,600!
Two residents even ended their program with a credit to put towards future month's rent. What's more, many of them achieved personal goals during the program: One enrolled in a bachelor's level program for computer sciences, two were able to purchase vehicles, one joined a program to develop community leadership skills, and one made a significant improvement to her credit score. The fact that all this was done in the midst of a pandemic makes their accomplishments all the more impressive.
We are immensely proud of all our participants and grateful to our financial coaching partners, Prosperity Connection and LifeWiseSTL.”
The “Here To Stay” program is funded in part by the City of St. Louis’ Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
Image by DeSales Community Development
