The Fresh Start Financial Empowerment Program combines financial education and individualized support with access to affordable, small-dollar loans. Through partnerships with community organizations in Massachusetts, the program will initially serve 50 justice-involved participants with plans to expand to additional states over time. Individuals who complete the program may apply for a small loan to address immediate financial needs and reduce reliance on high-cost borrowing.

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This initiative advances First Step Alliance’s mission of financial inclusion by increasing access to affordable credit for people who may not qualify under traditional scoring methods. By using alternative criteria to assess loan readiness, the program gives participants the opportunity to demonstrate their capacity to manage and repay a loan. Our goal is to significantly scale this approach to address persistent barriers to mainstream financial services for justice-involved individuals.

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​​​​​Program Overview

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The program is designed to help justice-involved individuals improve their financial well-being and access to affordable loans. Through financial education, individualized guidance, and peer support, participants gain practical knowledge to manage money and address financial challenges.​ The one-month educational program includes weekly workshops, self-paced learning, and one-on-one financial coaching. Graduates receive a certificate of completion and may be eligible for a small loan.​ ​​​

 

What the Program Includes​

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Financial Education Workshops: Weekly group workshops covering essential financial topics, including budgeting, banking, credit, debt management, and strategies for improving financial health.

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Peer Mentoring and Financial Coaching: Guidance from certified financial educators, including individuals with lived experience, who help participants apply what they learn to their own financial goals and circumstances.

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Individualized Credit Counseling: Access to certified counselors who can help participants understand their credit, address credit-related challenges, and navigate financial concerns.

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Self-Paced Learning: Online resources to explore additional financial topics and reinforce what participants learn in workshops.

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Certificate of Completion: Individuals who complete the educational program receive a certificate recognizing their participation and commitment to improving financial health.

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Access to Affordable, Small-Dollar Loans: Eligible graduates may apply for a small-dollar loan to help address immediate financial needs. Loans are designed to provide an affordable alternative to high-cost borrowing, subject to program requirements and approval.

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​​​​Program Launch & Expansion 

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Four cohorts are planned beginning in January 2027, with the initial program serving 50 participants through organization partnerships in Massachusetts. First Step Alliance plans to build on this effort and expand the program in the future. 

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