A journey of survival became a path to stability and growth.

Larry was 30 years old, married, and caring for two dogs when he began working with Tzedek DC's financial counseling team in late 2024. He faced overwhelming challenges: $31,000 in car-related debt, a credit score in the 550s, and homelessness despite working continuously for over a decade. His financial position was precarious, and his ultimate dream of building a small business seemed out of reach.

After one year of working with Tzedek DC financial counselors, his life is very different. He found an affordable place to live, mastered monthly budgeting by applying the 50% rule for rent and essential needs, built a mini emergency fund of $1,000 in a high-yield savings account, and started learning about investments and retirement planning.

Most importantly, his relationship with money is transforming. His outlook is now positive and proactive. While there is still work to do, he has already experienced a major transformation in how he approaches financial decisions. What began as a journey of survival has become a path toward stability and growth.

Larry and his Tzedek DC financial counselor are now focused on debt repayment, credit-building strategies, and budgeting methods tailored for service workers with seasonal incomes. He is also exploring small business credit and resources, plus more flexible banking options, to pursue his dream of starting his own business.

Thanks to Tzedek DC, Larry's relationship with money is transformed. And thanks to you, Tzedek DC is rapidly scaling the number of people like Larry they can serve.