A coalition that includes social service providers and financial industry representatives has launched Bank on Clark County, an initiative intended to encourage saving by helping low-income households open savings accounts.
The local effort is part of a nationwide collaboration between social service agencies and financial institutions in many communities to eliminate some barriers to opening savings accounts.Kevin Gillette, executive director of the Community Housing Resource Center and chairman of the local Bank On initiative, said the coalition isn’t asking banks or credit unions to change policies. But he said participating financial institutions will offer warm, supportive assistance to social service clients who have little experience, or negative experiences, with financial institutions.
More information is available from Gillette at the Community Housing Resource Center, Kevin@homecen.org or 360-690-4496 ext. 101.
