Tuesday, Apr 16 2013 4:12PM

A new program may help rural residents improve their financial standing.

The Tlingit-Haida Regional Housing Authority (THRHA) in Juneau unveiled a new program to help provide financial literacy and information on affordable housing to residents of rural Southeast, Alaska, according to the Juneau Empire.

The program, MyStartingPoint: Life Cents, is designed to provide educational resources that cover a wealth of financial literacy topics, including budgeting, paying off debt, managing day-to-day expenses, exploring affordable housing assistance options and investing. The program will rely on videos, online seminars and other types of technology to reach out to residents. 

"The communities we serve can only be accessed by ferry or plane, our goal is to bridge that gap and provide continuing education once Financial Cent$, THRHA's Financial Literacy Program, classes have been completed," said Dawn Wesley, THRHA Loan Servicing & Financial Skills Specialist, according to the newspaper. "Empowering the people of Southeast Alaska to be self-sufficient and, in turn, create self-sustaining communities one individual at a time is our objective."

Many rural residents lack the resources to learn more about the money management skills and behaviors that can ensure their financial health. Financial literacy programs have been instrumental in providing individuals with a wealth of information that helps them find affordable housing, manage their bills and build a strong financial foundation. 

For more information, check out this resource: The Juneau Empire