A new financial education initiative is giving Battle Creek families tools to navigate today’s complex economic landscape. The Battle Creek Family Financial Literacy Program launched this January with ambitious goals to reach 1,500 local households by year’s end.
The program, spearheaded by the Battle Creek Community Foundation in partnership with Kellogg Community College and several local credit unions, aims to address growing financial challenges facing area residents. According to recent census data, nearly 19% of Battle Creek households live below the poverty line, with another 24% classified as “asset limited, income constrained, employed” (ALICE) families.
“We’re seeing families across all income levels struggling to build savings, manage debt, and plan for their futures,” explains Maria Gonzalez, program director and former financial advisor. “This isn’t just about helping low-income households—it’s about creating financial resilience throughout our community.”
The initiative offers a multi-pronged approach tailored to diverse family needs. Free workshops cover topics from basic budgeting to investment strategies, while one-on-one coaching sessions provide personalized guidance. Digital resources and a mobile app supplement in-person learning.
Battle Creek resident James Wilson, who attended the program’s launch event with his teenage daughter, expressed optimism about the initiative. “I’ve always wanted to teach my kids about money, but I didn’t have these lessons growing up. Having experts guide us through conversations about saving and spending as a family—that’s invaluable.”
The program distinguishes itself through its whole-family approach. Rather than targeting only adults, workshops encourage participation from all household members, including children as young as eight. Saturday morning “Money Matters” sessions specifically designed for elementary and middle school students have already reached capacity for February.
“Financial habits form early,” notes Dr. Keisha Roberts, education specialist at Kellogg Community College and program curriculum developer. “Research shows children who participate in regular conversations about money with their families are more likely to become financially responsible adults.”
The initiative comes amid growing recognition of financial literacy gaps nationwide. A recent Federal Reserve survey found that 35% of American adults would struggle to cover an unexpected $400 expense, highlighting widespread financial vulnerability.
Local business leaders have also embraced the program. Twenty Battle Creek employers have already signed up to host lunch-and-learn sessions for their workers, with participating companies ranging from manufacturing plants to healthcare facilities.
“Financial stress directly impacts workplace productivity and employee wellbeing,” says Thomas Chen, CEO of Battle Creek Manufacturing Association. “We see this program as both a community service and a smart business investment.”
Funding for the initiative comes from a mix of sources, including a $275,000 grant from the Michigan Financial Wellness Foundation, contributions from local businesses, and in-kind support from financial institutions. This diverse funding model has allowed the program to remain completely free for participants.
Early registration data suggests the program is reaching its intended audience. Of the 378 households signed up in the first week, approximately 45% represent low-to-moderate income families, 30% identify as communities of color, and 25% include first-time homebuyers or prospective homeowners.
Looking ahead, organizers have developed a three-year sustainability plan. “This isn’t a one-off intervention,” Gonzalez emphasizes. “Financial education needs reinforcement and adaptation as families’ situations evolve.”
For Battle Creek resident and single mother Aisha Johnson, the program represents hope. “Between student loans, trying to save for my kids’ education, and keeping up with rising costs, I’ve felt overwhelmed,” she admits. “Having experts who understand these challenges and can help me create a realistic plan—that gives me confidence about our financial future.”
Families interested in participating can register through the Battle Creek Community Foundation website or at any branch of participating credit unions. The program also maintains a presence at the local farmers market on Saturday mornings, where staff provide information and assist with registration.
As the Battle Creek Family Financial Literacy Program 2025 gains momentum, organizers hope it will serve as a model for similar initiatives in mid-sized communities across Michigan and beyond.
