There are hundreds of charities that work to address the needs of the poor. But there are very few programs that truly strive to help families become financially self-sufficient. The Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services works with local residents, business owners, property owners, regional business leaders and local government to revitalize the neighborhoods of Springfield by encouraging home ownership through educational programs, lending programs, and the development of new homes for low-income families.

The SNHS is a leader in the revitalization of the low-income residential neighborhoods of Springfield. As many of the low-income families have been shut out of traditional lending institutions, it is especially important that this service is provided. Over 60% of all minority families in Springfield who have long-term loans have borrowed from sub-prime lenders, putting their homes, autos, and small businesses at great risk. Over the lifetime of a loan with a sub-prime lender, the additional interest can be in the $100,000 of dollars. In over 25 years, SNHS has invested $34 million into the community resulting in leveraged investments of more that $50,000,000, built or renovated 50 homes, helped nearly 1,000 families become first-time homeowners, and provided homebuyer education to over 300 families.

Through their educational programs--the Financial Fitness Training Program (addresses issues of budgeting, saving, banking, how to use banks to build assets, and smart consumerism) and the Homebuyer Education Seminar (provides families with the knowledge and understanding of the financial marketplace so they can control their personal finances) SNHS is making a difference in their community and in the lives they serve. Please give your support to this organization.