In 2022, Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation (PCDC) empowered Ms. L to take steps towards financial stability through their Financial Wellness Program. A retired full-time street cleaner for PCDC, Ms. L relies on Social Security benefits, but with $849 of her $1,084 monthly income going toward rent, she returned to part-time work to make ends meet.
After learning about PCDC’s Financial Wellness program through a WeChat post, Ms. L reached out for support. A PCDC counselor reviewed her finances, helped her develop a budget, and worked with her to set a goal of saving $50 per month for emergencies. Over the next nine months, her financial coach provided consistent guidance, follow-ups, and reminders to keep her motivated and on track.
By the end of the program, Ms. L had made meaningful progress toward her goal. More importantly, she developed budgeting habits that have strengthened her financial awareness and confidence. Ms. L remains committed to steadily building her savings and continues working with PCDC’s program to achieve a more secure financial future.