As a single mom with two children, Jennifer Weed began receiving AFDC years ago. Eventually, she was transferred into the welfare-to-work program. While working with Siskiyou Training and Employment Program (STEP), she started a childcare service in the small living room of her public-housing apartment. Her business grew, but she had room for only six children. Expanding by purchasing a house seemed beyond her reach. However, when Jennifer heard about the Building Assets Program offered by Jefferson Economic Development Institute (JEDI) in Mt. Shasta, she jumped at the chance.

The program includes financial literacy training, business development assistance, and a matching program that was able to contribute two dollars for every dollar Jennifer saved. The Building Assets Program is funded through the generosity of grants from the Wells Fargo Foundation, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Assets for Independence Program, the Scott Valley Bank, USDA Rural Development, and Community Development Block Grants.

Ultimately, Jennifer used her Building Assets savings to cover the down payment and closing costs on a home. Now, clients are amazed at the improved facilities she has for children, and buying a house has allowed Jennifer to more than double the size of her childcare business.