By XAVIER SMERDON
A PROGRAM that has helped hundreds of Wyndham families get on top of their finances and save money is celebrating its 10th birthday.
Saver Plus, an initiative of ANZ and the Brotherhood of St Laurence, was first piloted in 2003 and has since supported more than 20,000 people save money.
The program is delivered in Wyndham by The Smith Family and has helped 534 people from across Wyndham and Hobsons Bay save more than $220,000.
Saver Plus Coordinator, Daniel Crotty from The Smith Family, said participants had first built their financial skills and then their confidence.
“You can see their lives change for the better,” Mr Crotty said.
“Many start the program unsure of what they can achieve and it’s really rewarding to assist them reach their goal. Knowing that they have developed life-long skills that they can continue to use is a great feeling.”
For families on lower incomes, the benefits of saving even small amounts include protection from financial shocks, building confidence in managing money and dealing with financial challenges.
Past Saver Plus participant Jeanette, a Werribee grandmother caring for her grandchild, said the changes in her attitudes after completing the program included a new and empowering feeling of control.
“I’m surprised at how differently I look at my finances now,’’ Jeanette said.
“I really feel like I have the upper hand when it comes to making decisions about my money.’’
For more information on Saver Plus, visit www.bsl.org.au//Saver-Plus or contact 9749 7194.
