Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
During the current economic downturn, families are facing several challenges. They have difficulty using credit cards properly. When they don’t have money available to make all their payments on time, they must decide which creditors they have to pay first. Time management is difficult for many families, as is remaining healthy.  If families want to receive information to help them with these issues, they prefer local programs easily accessible to them. 

Response:
Iowa State University in Woodbury County offered the program Living Smart in Spanish and one time in English at Midtown Family Community Center, Mary J. Treglia Community House and Siouxland District Health Department. The families learned that communication is the most important; they also learned how to develop a budget, the importance of setting a financial goal, and how to keep track of their income and expenses. They learned how to manage their time and delegate responsibilities among the family members, and reviewed the article When to Shop from the new ISUE online resource Spend Smart, Eat Smart.

Impact:
By delivering Living Smart in four classes, two hours each to these small groups, 24 families (20 Hispanic and four Caucasian) in three different locations in Woodbury County were served. They indicated that they enjoyed the program, and at the same time they were surprised at what they learned in response to the  activity, “So what is 65 cents?” They realized that they have to prioritize spending, and they realize that managing money and time is relevant to keep them out of financial problems and to keep them healthy.

Contact:
Nancy Nicho
Woodbury County Extension
4301 Sergeant Rd, Ste 213
Sioux City, IA 51106
712-276-2157
nicho@iastate.edu