United Way of Greater New Bedford (UWGNB) is excited to announce the expansion of our Financial Wellness at Work (FWW) program, designed to support the local workforce in achieving greater financial stability. Following a successful pilot phase, we welcome Lifestream as a new partner. LifeStream is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals achieve greater independence and lead fulfilling lives. LifeStream provides a range of community-based services, including residential support, employment programs, and specialized autism services. With more than 700 employees, FWW will enhance work place satisfaction, boost worker productivity and retention, and advance employee financial stability, making LifeStream an employer of choice.
Recognizing the vital role that financial stability plays in overall well-being of each employee, LifeStream employees are offered a comprehensive, three-pronged approach:
- Confidential Coaching and Resource Access: Employees can benefit from one-on-one, confidential coaching sessions with our onsite Financial Wellness Coordinator. This trained advisor is equipped to assist employees with problem-solving, goal-setting, and connecting them to valuable resources tailored to their needs.
- Financial Literacy Workshops: Participants are encouraged to engage in workshops covering essential topics such as budgeting, savings, investments, and long-term financial planning. These sessions are designed to enhance financial literacy and empower employees to make informed decisions.
- Small-Dollar Loans: The Coordinator works closely with employees to facilitate small-dollar loans to address unexpected financial emergencies, which can be repaid through manageable payroll deductions.
A key element of the program's success lies in our collaboration with company managers. FWW coordinators work closely with leadership teams at each participating organization to ensure they understand the benefits of the FWW program and how it can address the challenges their employees face. Managers are often the first to hear about employee issues, so promoting the program effectively is critical to finding solutions for their employees concerns. Leadership and FWW Coordinators working together, allows employees to feel comfortable seeking help and accessing the resources they need.
Employees have frequently sought assistance on diverse topics, such as debt consolidation, housing, savings plans, and family support. These inquiries highlight the real financial challenges many people in the workforce face and reinforce the importance of the FWW program.
At UWGNB, we believe that by providing employees with the tools and resources they need, we can empower them to take control of their financial futures. The FWW program is not just about financial education; it’s educating and helping individuals achieve their financial dreams. We are dedicated to fostering long-term partnerships with local businesses and community service providers to maximize the program's impact and increase every employee's economic mobility.