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AHFA is seeking to partner with Alabama banks to add a children’s component to existing homebuyer education efforts.
“We saw a need in our state for basic financial literacy training for children,” said Carrie Hamaker, AHFA’s single-family administrator. “The earlier we can teach our kids about financial responsibility, the better equipped they’ll be to develop good habits and make informed spending decisions as adults.”
AHFA is offering the kids’ sessions in conjunction with Alabama banks who participate in its Step Up program, which offers down payment assistance for homeowners earning less than $130,600. Designed for children ages 6 and up and subject to availability, the classes are designed to complement banks’ adult homebuyer education courses, first-time homebuyer seminars, and other community outreach events.
AHFA has created coloring books, kid-friendly giveaways, interactive online games, and short videos explaining the differences between needs and wants, how to count U.S. coins, good savings habits, and more. Also in the works is a partnership with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville to present a field trip for children.
“Our classes so far have been very well-received,” said Hamaker. “Our message is that ‘you’re never too young and it’s never too late’ to learn financial literacy.”
Sample videos and other resources can be viewed at ahfa.com/ahfa-kids. For further information on co-hosting a class or event with AHFA, please call Carrie Hamaker at 334-244-9200.
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