Interfaith Housing Alliance

IHA strengthens communities by providing affordable housing opportunities and supportive services to improve the quality of life and economic stability for seniors, working families and individuals.

Financial education and housing counseling are crucial toward making a difference in the lives of residents who are at risk of losing their homes through foreclosure; vulnerable to identity theft and debt reduction scams; and/or unable to create and manage household budgets that foster credit repair and asset building, such as home ownership.

Credit Café provides is a free workshop for anyone in the community seeking to improve their credit. It is a one-stop shop that combines a one-hour group workshop with a 30-minute, one-on-one advising session. The group workshop provides general credit information, as well as tips and tricks to improve, maintain, or build one’s credit. The advising session offers the opportunity for participants to review their current credit report with a certified financial counselor and discuss ways in which they can apply their new knowledge to improve their score. Donations to the Unity Campaign will go directly to participants. Every $25 raised covers the cost of running a credit report, and $50 also covers a personalized credit advising session.

Credit Cafe started in 2015 as a one-time workshop and now operates at least once every month, whether virtually or in person. Anyone in the community with any financial goal in mind is welcome to attend Credit Café at no cost to them. IHA is also continuously seeking experienced financial advisors to volunteer their time and expertise. To register or volunteer for a Credit Café, contact Lacy Ames at 301-788-0239 or lames@interfaithhousing.org.