“I learned many things when I was in Covenant’s savings program.  The most critical thing I learned was the importance of good credit.  All the little things (like making our payments on time) made a huge difference with our credit.  I also learned some legal procedures and all the requirements for a home mortgage loan.  Overall, I gained knowledge of all the opportunities, rights, and responsibilities that we have as consumers.  The biggest change that I experienced was achieving the American Dream.  As a single mother, head of household, and recent immigrant to this country, the idea of owning a house was beyond reality.  With Covenant’s guidance, education, and assistance, this dream came true.  Now I’m a joyful homeowner.  Thank you.”  ~ Patricia Martinez, home buyer

“The most important thing I learned while saving in my Smart Savings Account was that, with discipline and determination, I can accomplish anything, even the hardest tasks.  We learned to cut down on everything that was unnecessary like cable and eating out.  We had a budget and a new style of living.”  ~Juana Matamoros, Homebuyer

“I learned how to make important financial decisions and get myself out of debt and into the habit of saving.  The biggest and most obvious change was the house I bought and having something of ours - a big piece of land and flowers in a garden.  I think this is one thing I never thought I would achieve so soon.  I am now the youngest member of my family that actually owns a house.  I know my family is very proud of me.”  ~ Ironelly Mora, Homebuyer

“I thank everyone at Covenant for making my first home purchase a reality.  The Smart Savings Account gave me an incentive to save.  They matched my funds.  While with conventional savings accounts, I would find reasons to withdraw the money.  With the Smart Savings Account, I knew that with every dollar I saved, I gained two dollars.  With every dollar withdrawn, I lost two; therefore, I was inclined to be more disciplined about my savings.  I am eternally grateful to everyone at Covenant for making a lifelong dream a reality.  Thank you.”  ~ Maria Vandal, Homebuyer

“The most important thing I learned was the importance of tracking my money and developing my own personal budget.  If I think about it, no business would even think of doing business without first evaluating how much money they have coming in, and how much money is going out.  If you understand your own spending trends you are able to have more flexibility, and can develop a plan to save for those things you desire without going into debt. The biggest change I noticed in my family was a desire to save money!  Saving money was a biggie for me, it meant giving up temporary gratifications in order to meet long-term goals.  It meant sacrifice and discipline.  Most people get money and just spend it without thinking – they want something, they buy it.  Well, for me, I was just not able to do that.  I had to keep my mind focused on the bigger picture, which was graduate school.  I’m here now and doing extremely well.  Thank you Covenant from the bottom of my heart for your contribution in helping me reach my dreams.  I’m sure the individuals I will be helping after I get my Masters degree in Social Work will be thankful as well.  God bless you.”  ~April Hawkins, education purchase

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