Cooperative Extension to Hold Free Money Wi$e Expo

For immediate release: January 15, 2010
Contact: Maisielin Ross, (561) 233-1742

As families across Palm Beach County are struggling to cope with rising unemployment, tighter credit and strained budgets, financial security is more important than ever. This is a critical time to take financial action through saving, debt reduction and wealth building.

In recognition of America/Palm Beach County Saves Week (Feb. 21 to 28, 2010), the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service and its community partners are hosting a free event on Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to offer help with saving money on a tight budget.  Participants will learn how to painlessly cut spending, reduce debt and take advantage of employer retirement savings contributions.  Presentation topics include:  Credit Management:  Why Am I a 678?; $ Smarts for Baby Boomers; How to Save; Foreclosure Prevention: How Do I Save My House?; Raising $ Smart Kids; Stretching the Family Dollar; Identity Theft and Fraud.

Participants will be able to shred personal documents onsite, complete an unclaimed money search and get free credit reports and no-strings-attached consultations with Certified Financial Planner™ Professionals.  There will also be free tax preparation for the first ten people who register for this service.  In the afternoon, the winners of the Piggy Bank Beauty Pageant will be announced.  The contest is open to children 12 years old and under.

For event details, to register for free tax preparation and/or a financial planning session or to receive a Piggy Bank Beauty Pageant entry form, call the Cooperative Extension at 233-1742 or visit www.pbcgov.com/coopext/facs.