Pierce County Asset Building Coalition

The Pierce County Asset Building Coalition is a collaboration of 50 partners working to actively engage all of Pierce County residents in building prosperity.

Too many families are "asset poor" -- if their income is disrupted they don't have the resources to sustain themselves even at the poverty level for a three-month period. A temporary job loss or health problem can throw them into crisis.

The Pierce County Asset Building Coalition grew out of a determination to go beyond the safety net. Coalition partners are developing programs to give low-income wage-earners the tools they need to control, manage and increase their financial resources. 

The Pierce County Asset Building Coalition seeks people to enter savings program

The Pierce County Asset Building Coalition is looking for people who are willing to enter a savings program called an Individual Development Account (IDA). Participants are required to complete a financial education course and work to save for one of the assets listed below.  Eligibility includes income 80 percent or less of area median income and current assets no more than $10,000 (not including a primary automobile or home).  Savings must be added each month for at least six months and the participant’s savings will be matched dollar for dollar when the purchase is made. 

Post-secondary education and training. Education and training may be provided to the account holder, their spouse, or a dependent child and must be provided through an educational institution or training provider approved by the Washington state work force education and training coordinating board.

Computer. The purchase of a computer must be determined to be necessary for work-related activities and/or postsecondary education or training.

Automobile or truck. The purchase of a vehicle must be determined to be necessary for work-related activities and/or postsecondary education or training.

Assistive technologies. Eligible uses include the purchase or enhancement of technologies that will allow persons with disabilities to participate in work-related activities.

For more information and an application, please contact Barbara Gorzinski at 253-383-3056 x118 or email barbarag@associatedministries.org. This program will end July 2011 and there are a few accounts left to fill.

A program of Associated Ministries

1224 S. I Street

Tacoma, WA  98405

(253) 383-3056 x118

pcabc@associatedministries.org