MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 1
MONEY A Financial Literacy Program
Train-the-Trainer’s Module
prepared by Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador in partnership with Credit Counselling Services Newfoundland and Labrador
Funding for this project provided by
Contact:
Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador October 2011 Suite 201, Virginia Plaza, Nfld. Drive St. John’s, NL A1A 3E9
Tel: 709-753-9860 Toll Free: 866-753-9860
Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador 22 Queen’s Road St. John’s, NL A1C 2A5 Tel: 709-753-5812
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 2
FOREWORD
The project represented in this training manual is a creation of the Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador (CSC) in partnership with Credit Counselling Services Newfoundland and Labrador.
MONEY (More Opportunities Not Experienced Yet) is a program intended to assist people in increasing their financial literacy, which was developed in 2010 by CSC though consultation with numerous other groups. The project is funded by the TD Financial Literacy Grants Fund which is founded by partners SEDI and TD Financial. The program is aimed at broadening the array and delivery methods of financial management information and services primarily to people who face economic disadvantages.
Through collaboration with consumers, community groups, government and professionals, MONEY has identified existing services, gaps, barriers and successful practices relating to financial literacy in this province. Building on existing programs, MONEY hopes to aid in the uptake of financial information and services by training community-based trainers who will then offer information sessions and raise awareness among community groups, their clients and members of the public.
The purpose of this manual is for the MONEY train-the-trainer workshops. It provides materials which may be used to assist in the distribution and preparation of information by those who participate in the train-the-trainer sessions. In this way the quality and consistency of further information and peer learning will be encouraged. Please note the document is not intended for distribution to participants in future sessions offered by the trainers but is to serve as a reference or resource.
If you have questions about the use of this material please contact Penny Rowe at the Community Sector Council NL at [email protected] or 866 753 9860 or Al Antle at the Credit Counselling Services NL at [email protected] or 888-738-3328
Good Luck and thanks for participating in this important undertaking.
Penelope Rowe CEO Community Sector Council NL
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART ONE ...... 4
Train the Trainer General Guidelines ...... 4
Message to Trainers ...... 7
PART TWO ...... 8
Session One Financial Choices and Options ...... 8
Session Two Understanding Credit and Debt ...... 11
Session Three Household Priority Budgeting ...... 15
Session Four Shopping for Food ...... 18
Session Five Income Tax and Government Programs ...... 20
Session Six Making the Transition to Work ...... 28
Session Seven Children and Money ...... 31
Session Eight Being a Smart Consumer ...... 34
PART THREE ...... 36
Hand-outs...... 36
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 4
PART ONE
Train the Trainer General Guidelines
According to adult educator Malcolm Knowles, adults learn best when:
1. They understand why a topic is important 2. They have the freedom to learn in their own way 3. Learning is experiential 4. The time is right for them to learn 5. The process is positive and encouraging
Our Approach:
• Strive to be as values-neutral as possible • Avoid judgments • Remember that we are all experts and we are all learners
Preparation Steps:
• Make sure you are rested beforehand because training is demanding work • Get to know the clients who are taking part in the workshop (talk to their service providers, etc.) • Arrange childcare or reimbursement for childcare for clients who need it • Arrange transportation for clients • Arrange aids for any clients with disabilities • Get to know the room you’ll be using • Enlist a second ‘trainer’ to be there and observe what is working and what isn’t
Beginning the Session:
• Introduce yourself and welcome clients to the session • Invite people to help themselves to refreshments • Point out where the washrooms are • Tell people when there will be breaks • Use an ice-breaker (see next section for some possibilities) • Ask people to turn off their cell phones or put them on vibrate • Briefly explain the objective of the session
Possible ice-breakers:
Unless all the members of the group know each other well, it might be best to avoid interactive ice- MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 5
breakers. The purpose of an ice-breaker at the start of each session is to give the trainer the opportunity to directly address each participant while learning and using their name.
Here are some that are quite simple:
• Ask where does your name come from? Participants could answer about their first, middle or last names, e.g. my first name Joshua is from the Bible; I got my middle name from my aunt Elizabeth; Grandy is a common last name on the Burin Peninsula, etc.. • What is your favorite pastime? Answers could range from watching TV, reading detective novels, going to bingo, cooking, knitting, going for walks, etc. • What is your favorite season? What do you like about it? • Do you have an ‘earworm’ (a song that you can’t get out of your head)? What is it?
Ground Rules (to be posted):
Discuss ground rules and post them where they will be visible during the session They might include:
• Keep an open mind • Everyone who wants to will have the chance to participate • Speaking is not mandatory • Let people speak, rather than interrupting • There will be no side conversations as these are distracting • Return from breaks on time • Respect one another • Remember that we are all different and we are all experts and learners • Ask if there is anything else to add?
Presenting:
• Be natural and relaxed—be yourself • Remember that communication is 55% body movements, including facial expressions, 38% voice, and 7% words • Be honest—if you don’t know the answer, say so
Encouraging participation:
• Use silences to allow people to absorb things • Frequently ask for and encourage questions and idea-sharing • Ask open-ended questions—the ‘how’ questions, rather than questions that elicit a yes or no answer • Keep your own contributions during discussions as brief as possible • Be patient—some questions or points raised may be repetitive and very basic
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Feedback:
• Encourage feedback • Formally collect feedback at the end of the session, e.g. a simple questionnaire • Consider having a prize draw for everyone who gives feedback
Ending the session:
• Thank everyone for coming • Remember to distribute gift certificates or honoraria • Remember to distribute certificates of participation
After the Session:
• Note what worked and what didn’t: best practices and lessons learned
Cautions for delivering sessions to people with low incomes:
• Avoid using your personal stories, even if you are a service provider • Avoid talking about vacations as you will lose people • Avoid asking ‘why’ questions • Avoid using terms like ‘financial literacy’ • Use the breaks to check in with people • Be accessible after the session; don’t leave right away as there may be people who want personal contact with you
Evaluation
To understand how successful our training has been in preparing you to offer your own seminars, we will need to gather information from you after the training and over time. Questions may include:
• Was the information you receive useful? • How soon will you plan your own session? • How will you know if the information was useful to your participants? • Will you provide sessions on an as-needed basis or promote sessions to those who may be interested?
This information is important to evaluate our program to make any necessary changes to make the program work for everyone involved.
After you have finished your training, please fill out the evaluation sheet that you will be provided.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 7
Message to Trainers
Using Today’s Information in the Future
Today’s seminar is not a service for only those attending the training; it is intended that you will deliver the information to others in your community and exercise your new role as trainer.
Our goal was to reach hundreds of people through trainers like you. To complete our goal and make the program a success, we are relying on you to actively deliver sessions within your community and surrounding areas.
To ensure the successful delivery of these sessions we have incentives and resources that can be provided for you during a period of time through our funding. Please contact us for more information when planning your own your sessions.
Sessions
Please also note that the sessions that follow are self-contained. They can be offered as a package or each one can be offered on its own. These sessions are based on extensive qualitative research with clients, creditors and service providers in St. John’s and on the Burin Peninsula. Our findings are supported by financial literacy research findings elsewhere around the world, which has led to the development of the following sessions:
• Financial Choices • Understanding Credit and Debt • Household Priority Budgeting • Shopping for Food • Income Tax and Government Programs • The Transition to Work • Children and Money • Being a Smart Consumer
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 8
PART TWO
Session One
Financial Choices and Options
Content Points:
1. Priority Exercise
• Everyone has different priorities • Everyone makes different choices • Choices are personal • Choices are not necessarily good or bad; choices usually depend on needs and preferences
2. Information on Banks, Credit Unions and Finance Companies
• Payday loan companies are different from banks • Payday loan companies sell money • Banks offer many different services • Anyone can open a bank account • Credit union offer many different services • Credit unions have members, not customers • Finance companies are something in between a bank and a payday loan company
3. Lender Exercise
• What are interest rates? • Payday loan companies charge high interest rates • Finance companies charge high interest rates, too
4. Cash Crunch Exercise
• What is a creditor? • If you can’t pay a creditor, talk to them • Free financial counseling • Community resources to help you cope with the high cost of living
5. Sharing of Tips and Conclusion
• Your own money skills
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Sections
1. Priority Exercise
Pin up a mock-up $50 bill or give one to groups of 2, 5, depending on size of total group. Give them some time to discuss this question: What would you do if you found this bill and could keep it? Then regroup for a general discussion.
Learning outcome: Everyone has different priorities.
2. Information on Banks, Credit Unions and Finance Companies.
Money marts and cash stores are different from banks; banks and credit unions offer many services but money marts only sell money. Finance companies are something in the middle. Anyone can open a bank account, including people on income support.
Learning outcome: people will understand the differences between finance companies and banks and will be encouraged to deal first with a banks or credit union and then with a finance company.
3. Lender Exercise
(1) Visual on PowerPoint, money marts, numbers appearing one at a time. You borrow $300.00 on March 30; the interest rate is 29%, say; you pay back $422.00 on April 8; you’ve paid $122.00 in charges.
(2) Visual on PowerPoint, furniture discount store numbers appearing one at a time: A loveseat costs $17 per week for 92 weeks. The total you’ll pay them is $1600.00. What does it cost at the furniture store down the street? $649.00.
Learning outcome: The high costs of using borrowing and purchasing through these institutions.
4. Cash Crunch Exercise
You need $50 right now to pay NL Power but you don’t have it. Break into small groups, depending on size of total group, and brainstorm about what you can do. Regroup for a general discussion.
Ideas that might come up, useful or not so useful: borrow from a friend; talk to NL Power; save money somewhere else in your budget (get an item from SPAN instead of buying it; put off a purchase; etc.); raid your piggybank; visit a credit counselor etc.
Learning outcome: The importance of dealing with financial problems as they emerge; some skills or tools to cope with financial pressures; increased awareness of community resources.
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5. Sharing of Tips and Conclusion
To acknowledge people’s existing skills, this might be a good place to share some of the tips they’ve picked up in community kitchens, Skills Link work placements, TV shows, etc. The tips may or may not work for everyone, of course, but it is all part of the discussion.
Learning Outcome: Everyone has existing money skills already; potential bonus: encouragement to continue good money management and a boost to self-esteem.
Notes:
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Session Two
Understanding Credit and Debt
Content Points:
1. Defining Credit
• Credit is availability of money for borrowing and involves a promise to repay • Credit comes with costs • There is good credit • There is bad credit
2. Forms of Credit and Loans
• These are many kinds of credit products • The kind of credit product you apply for depends on the kind of purchase you want to make • Different credit products require different ways of repayment
3. Defining Debt
• Debt is all the money we owe and have to repay • A bad debt is money that will never be repaid
4. Borrowing
• We have to be in charge of our own borrowing • Banks and credit unions are the best places to borrow from • It is not good to borrow from money marts and cash stores1 • Borrowing from friends and family can cause problems • Never borrow from someone you don’t know well
5. Interest Rates
• Interest rates are the cost of borrowing money • They are expressed as a percentage • It is important to figure out how what something will actually cost with the interest rate factored in
1 Note that in St. John’s these establishments are usually called money marts while in Marystown they are usually referred to as cash stores; other terms might be used in other places MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 12
6. Debt Repayment and Debt Management
• There are several options when it comes to managing debt and repaying debt • Some options are better than others
7. Credit Rating and Credit Scores
• A credit rating is based on your record of repaying money • A credit score is an estimate of whether or not you can repay credit • The goal is to keep your credit rating and your credit score high
Sections
1. Defining Credit
Credit is money that is available to us for borrowing. There is a promise involved in credit--a promise to repay using future income. There are also costs, which will be discussed later.
“Good credit” should improve someone’s financial position. What they have bought will increase in value over time.
“Bad credit” won’t improve someone’s financial position; what they are buying has no value or will decline in value.
Exercise: As a group or in small groups, brainstorm to come with examples of good and bad credit: houses, land, pensions, vs cars, furniture loans, vacations, clothing, restaurant meals, etc.
Learning outcome: Credit is money available for borrowing that has to be repaid in the future. We can use credit (borrow money) for different types of things. Some types of borrowing make more sense than other types.
2. Forms of Credit and Loans
Credit cards, mortgages, and lines of credit are some of the many different types of credit and loans. These are called credit products.
The kind of credit product you apply for depends on the kind of purchase you want to make; for instance, for a large purchase like a car or a smaller purchase like furniture. Different credit products require different ways of repayment.
Learning outcome: The decision to borrow money must be taken carefully. There are various ways to borrow money; the credit product you choose has implications for how you will repay the money.
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3. Defining Debt
Debt is the total amount of money we owe. A bad debt is a loss, money that will never be repaid.
Exercise: A discussion about how people run up more debt (borrow more money) than they can repay? What happens when you owe more than you can repay?
Learning outcome: Debt is all the money we owe. We have to repay our debts. It is easy to get too deep into debt.
4. Borrowing
Financial institutions sell money the way Tim Horton’s sells donuts; they will keep selling -- so it is up to us to stop buying when necessary.
It is not a good idea to borrow from money marts and cash stores. Their interest rates are too high. Borrowing from people you don’t know well is not a good idea. Borrowing from friends and family can harm your relationships if you can’t repay them.
Banks and credit union are the best places to borrow from.
Learning outcome: We have to be in charge of our own borrowing; financial institutions are not necessarily looking out for our best interests.
5. Interest Rates
This is the cost of borrowing money; it is a percentage. It is important to figure out what something will actually cost us, with the interest rate factored in. The bi-weekly payments don’t give the whole picture.
Exercise: Use the exercise from Session 1 or an adaptation of it. Repetition of material is fine and even useful.
Learning outcome: Interest rates indicate the cost of borrowing money. It is important to get a true picture of cost means; this means working out total payments over the entire borrowing term.
6. Debt Management and Debt Repayment
When it comes to paying your debts, there are several options. These include: • selling your possessions (fire sales aren’t a good idea) • “consolidating” your debts (putting all that you owe into one loan, not several, which can get you a lower interest rate) • going to a credit counselor (CCSNL is free, local, and reliable) • and bankruptcy (your last option because it has consequences like a lower credit rating)
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Learning outcome: There are several options when it comes to managing debt and repaying debt. Some options are better than others.
7. Credit Rating and Credit Scores
A credit rating is based on your record of repaying money you’ve borrowed.
A credit score is an estimate of whether or not you can repay credit—or if you will “default.” Your credit score is based on your income, how much you owe and your credit rating.
If possible, the goal is to keep your credit rating and your credit score high—someday you may want to buy a house, for instance.
Learning outcome: Building a good credit record might increase your credit options in the future.
Handouts for this session: Information on free sources of credit reports.
Notes:
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Session Three
Household Priority Budgeting
Content Points
1. Thinking about Income
• We are ‘bound’ or limited by our income, no matter where it comes from or how much it is • Our goal is to use our income in the best way possible • Make a plan • Do your best to live by this plan
2. Household Priority Budgeting
• This is a good way to budget if your income is low • Expenses are listed in order or priority—or importance • Questions to ask: what is our biggest expense? What will happen if we can’t pay it? If we don’t pay it, where can we go to get help? • Priorities: shelter; heat; food; other utilities; clothing; personal enjoyment; debts
3. Shelter
• Your biggest expense: rent or mortgage • Paying it means you and your children have a stable home • Hard to borrow $600 to pay rent vs. $100 to buy food
4. Heat
• Northern climate • Equal Payment Plan (NL Power and various oil providers) • ReDirect program (NL Power) • Talk to your creditors; don’t hide
5. Food
• Covered in another workshop • Next biggest item after shelter and heat
6. Other Utilities:
• If power is separate from your heat bill • Cable TV, internet, phone: all necessities in today’s world MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 16
• CAP sites if you don’t have internet access at home2
7. Clothing:
• Your clothing budget can vary (seasonally, personal preferences) • Clothing for school children is a huge financial challenge • It’s important to plan for footwear costs • But clothing is one area you might be able to save money in, depending on your circumstances3
8. Personal enjoyment
• Do something for yourself and members of your family • Brainstorming about personal enjoyment4 • But this is another area you might be able to save money in, depending on your circumstances
9. Debt
• Bills must be paid in full • Debts can be paid over time • Debts: car loans, mortgages, credit cards • Pay your debts after the other items above have been paid • There are financial and personal consequences if you don’t pay your debts • Talk to your creditors; don’t hide
Sections
1. Thinking about Income
Information on how we are bound by our income; our goal is to use our income in the best way possible; planning is one way to do this.
2 We have a list of Community Access Program sites in St. John’s and Burin, where people can get free internet access.
3 There are many outlets of used clothing in the city, including free clothing. This may be suitable for adults or small children. We know there is more pressure to buy certain types of clothing for schoolchildren. We have a hand-out of free and cheap goods and services, including clothing. See the hand-outs in Part Three.
4Ideas include: having your hair done; renting or buying videos; going to a concert or movie; going to a restaurant or ordering take-out; buying a small appliance; buying some books or magazines; buying something related to a hobby (such as wool for knitting). Again our list of free and cheap goods and services might be useful.
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2. Planning for Priorities Discussion
What do you have to spend money on? This will be a values-neutral brainstorming session.
Discussion around some things are necessities—shelter, for example—and other things that are more for personal enjoyment—going to a movie, for example.
Learning outcome: There are some things we have to spend money on no matter what.
3. Introduction to Household Priority Budgeting
The facilitator will take the participants through the priorities: shelter, heat, food, other utilities, clothing, and personal enjoyment.
Exercise: Using a worksheet, participants will apply this method.
Learning outcome: How to use the Household Priority Budgeting method.
4. Information on Debt
Regular bills and extraordinary expenses must be paid in full while debts can be paid over time; there are financial and personal consequences if you don’t pay your debts. Some bills (e.g. NL Power can be prorated: Equal Payment Plan). Ideas about saving for extraordinary expenses.
Learning outcome: An understanding of the differences between bills and debts and the importance of debt payments.
Hand-Outs for this Session
Household priority budgeting worksheet; 50 ways to save 50 cents a day; list of free and cheap goods and service locally; ways to save money—cleaning your house with vinegar; ways to save money—possible homemade gifts.
Notes:
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Session Four
Shopping for Food
Content Points:
1. Buying Food
• How much is your food bill? • Food and groceries are not the same
2. Food and Health
• Processed foods and convenience foods are less healthy: heart disease, diabetes • These foods are also more expensive
3. Shopping for Value
• Are club packs the best value? • How much food gets thrown out? • Are there ways to make my food dollar go farther?
Sections
1. Information on the Difference Between Food and Groceries
Groceries includes household items such as soap, garbage bags, etc., not just food. Your food bill is different from your grocery bill.
Learning outcome: Food is a “must-have” while groceries are “nice to have.”
2. Information on Food Shopping
How much is your food bill? The pitfalls of buying convenience foods. Buying club packs can lead to wastage; this means that club packs might not be cheaper.
Learning outcome: Some food buying choices make more sense than others.
3. Planning for Food Shopping
The importance of planning and having a list. Supermarket sections: inexpensive items are on the highest and lowest shelves. It’s wise to shop on the outside edges of the store.
Exercise: Using the Supermarket Shopping Guide; discussion of other tips participants might have.
Learning outcome: Ways to save money while buying food. MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 19
4. Possible add-on exercise: Arrange a supermarket tour with a nutritionist.
Hand-Outs for this session
Besides the Supermarket Shopping Guide, Ways to save money—community gardens; Ways to save money—adapted peas pudding recipe.
Notes:
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Session Five
Income Tax and Government Programs
Note to trainers: Based on discussions with clients, the bulk of this session is in Question and Answer format. You may want to use all of the sections or only some (there are section on families with children, people with disabilities, etc., depending on who is taking part in the session. Many of the programs listed are found in the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Program and Services for Individuals and Families booklet that you have been provided with.
Content Points
• Canadians are expected to file their income tax every year, regardless of how they receive their income (e.g. employment insurance, income support, part-time work, etc.) • When you file your income tax, government will know exactly how much income you have— this is important for certain programs, like the Child Tax Credit • The purpose of income tax is not to punish people; it is not part of the criminal justice system
Learning Outcome: It is important to file income tax. Filing can give me access to government programs. There are opportunities to file your income tax for free—you do not need to go to H&R Block or other tax services that take a percentage of your refund.
Suggested hand-out: blank income tax returns; home-heating rebate applications; NL Prescription Drug Program applications; flyers on the Learning Bond; disability tax certificate application (most are in the hand-out section; all forms can be obtained on line if people need extra copies).
Why should I file my income tax return?
Filing your income tax return can give you access to programs that may put money in your pocket. Some of the programs are offered by the provincial government. Others are offered by the federal government. But if you haven’t filed your income tax, you can’t access these programs.
Doesn’t it cost money to file an income tax return? Won’t tax professionals take a cut from my rebate?
You can have your income tax return done for free. Every year the federal government has tax professionals go to community centres and church halls to do people’s taxes for them. Anyone can go and you don’t need to make an appointment. The schedule is announced early in the New Year. Call the Canada Revenue Agency at 772-3275 for more information. It usually takes a few weeks after you file to get your rebate.
What are some of the programs I can access if I file my income tax return?
1. GST Credit and the HST Credit
This is a rebate for people whose income is below a certain level. The amount varies, depending MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 21
on your income. The HST Credit is from the province and the GST Credit is from the federal government. But they are combined into one cheque. You receive your cheque every three months, starting the July after you file your income tax return. You apply for this rebate through your income tax return—you don’t need to apply separately. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there.
2. Home Heating Rebate
You have to apply for the home heating rebate every year. But the form is easy to fill out. If you pay to heat your home and your income is below a certain level, you can qualify. It doesn’t matter what kind of heat you have. You have to send in a copy of your heat bill with your application. Your cheque will come once a year. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there. To get an application form, go to www.fin.gov.nl.ca/fin/homeheating/HHRApplication.pdf
3. Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Plan (NLPDP)
a. If you receive Income Support, you are automatically covered by the Foundation Program. You do not need to apply for it.
b. If you have a low income, you may qualify for the Access Program. You have to apply for the Access Program; call 1-888-859-3535 for an application. You also have to file an income tax return.
c. If you have very high drug costs, you may qualify for the Assurance Plan. You have to apply for the Assurance Program; call 1-888-859-3535 for an application. You also have to file an income tax return.
d. If you are a senior who receives Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, you automatically qualify for the 65Plus Plan. You do not need to apply for the 65Plus Plan but you do need to file an income tax return.
Are there any other programs for seniors based on your income tax return?
Yes, seniors age 65 or older with a low income may qualify for the Seniors Benefit from the provincial government. The amount you receive depends on your income. Call 729-3166 for more information.
What about families with children—are there programs that depend on my income tax return?
1. Canada Child Tax Benefit and the Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit (NLCB)
These programs are for families with low and middle incomes. They are combined into one payment that you receive once a month. The exact payment depends on your income and the number of children you have.
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You apply for these benefits by filing your income tax return. You will receive your first payment the July after you file your income tax return. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there. Parents returning to work keep their Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit.
2. Canada Learning Bond
You can receive this benefit if you already receive the child benefits described above, have a low income, and have a child born on or after January 1, 2004. This goes into an account you open to save for your child’s education after high school. (The account is called a Registered Education Savings Plan or RESP.)
The first step is to get a social insurance number (SIN) for your child; call Service Canada at 772- 2982 to learn how to do this. There is an application you fill out and you include your child’s birth certificate with it. Then you make an appointment at a bank of your choice to open the account.
After the account is opened, the federal government will automatically put $500 in it; you don’t have to put anything in. They also put in $25 to cover the cost of opening the account (such as transportation). Then every year until your child is 15, they put in $100. When your child graduates from high school, the money can be used towards college, university or apprenticeship studies. Your child can study full-time or part-time.
3. Mother Baby Nutrition Supplement
If you receive the Newfoundland and Labrador Child Benefit (NLCB) or are pregnant or have a child under a year old, you may qualify for this supplement. This is $60 a month. You will also receive a one-time payment of $90 for the month your child is born. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there. If you are pregnant call 1-800-508- 4788 to apply.
What if I have a disability or have a family member with one? Is it worthwhile filing a tax return?
Yes, there are a number of programs for people with disabilities. Some of them depend on your tax return. Here are some of them:
1. Disability Tax Credit
If you or your child has a disability, it is worth applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The DTC means you have to pay less income tax. Even if you don’t pay income tax, it is worth applying for because it may mean you can receive other benefits. A medical professional, such as a physician, completes this form. You can apply if you or your child have a disability relate to speaking, seeing, hearing, walking, dressing, mental functions, feeding and bathroom functions. The Disability Tax Credit can be back-dated for seven years. Call Service Canada at 772-2982 for an application form.
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2. Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
If you have a Disability Tax Credit and you are under 60, you may be able to have a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). You also need a social insurance number. The RDSP is a savings account to help you save for the future.
The RDSP has two parts. The first part is the Canada Disability Savings Bond. Through the Bond, the government puts up to $1000 each year into your account. The exact amount depends on your income. You can receive the Bond each year from birth to age 49.
The second part of the RDSP is the Canada Disability Savings Grant. You have to be 49 or under to receive the Grant. Through the Grant, the government matches whatever money you put in your account. Depending on your income they may put in a dollar for every dollar you put in or they may put in two or three dollars for every dollar you put in.
The RDSP can be back-dated for ten years. That means you can receive the Bonds and Grants for the past ten years.
Talk to a bank to open an RDSP. The Royal Bank on Water St., St. John’s takes appointments. CIBC lets you open an RDSP over the phone: 1-800-465-3868.
3. Child Disability Benefit
If your child has the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and is under 18, he or she can receive this benefit. It is a monthly payment of up to $205 from the federal government. It is added onto your child tax benefit payments explained above. Call 1-800-387-1193 for more information.
Other Social Programs
Some other social programs are available as well. Some of these are for families with children
1. Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB)
This is a payment of $100 a month for each of your children under age 6, no matter what the family’s income is. The UCCB comes from the federal government. To receive the UCCB, the child must be living with you. Your child does not have to go to daycare, preschool or a babysitter’s to receive the UCCB. People with higher incomes have to pay taxes on the UCCB. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there.
2. Progressive Family Growth Benefit
The program gives $1000 when a baby is born or placed in a home for adoption, no matter what the family’s income is. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there. Call 729-1695 or 1-877-729-1695 or email [email protected] for more information.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 24
3. Parental Support Benefit (PSB)
The Parental Support Benefit (PSB) is a $100 monthly benefit for the first year of a child’s life, no matter what the family’s income is. You can cash this cheque at any bank for free, even if you don’t have an account there. Call 729-1695 or 1-877-729-1695 or email [email protected] for more information.
4. Child Care Subsidy
The provincial government may help with the cost of having your child in child care. There are some criteria to receive this help.
To qualify, you must be going to work or training. If you are working, your family income must be on the low side. Or you have a disability or an illness or have many medical appointments. Or you need family support. Or your child needs the child care environment for his or her development.
Your child must attend a licensed day care or preschool or go to a regulated family child care home. Some or all of your child care costs will be covered. If you are working, you have to submit a pay stub with your application. If you are self-employed, you have to submit your last tax return with your application. People who are employed can receive a subsidy for a full-day. If you are self-employed, the subsidy is for only ½ a day.
If you don’t have a car, help with transportation may be available.
For more information in St. John’s, call Eastern Health at 752-4800. On the Burin Peninsula, call 279-7900.
You may be receiving Income Support while you are going to work or training. Your child may be in the care of a babysitter if there are no regulated child care spaces available. The provincial government may be able to help with costs. Call 1-877-729-7888 for more information.
5. High School Incentive Allowance
If you receive Income Support and you have a child aged 18 or over and still in high school you can receive a payment from the provincial government. Call 1-877-729-7888 for more information.
6. Education Incentive Allowance
This program is for tenants of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing (NLHC) with a family member in high school, college or university. The family member can be a child or an adult. They will receive a monthly payment of $50. This monthly payment will not be clawed back if you receive Income Support. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279-5375.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 25
Does the provincial government have any support for people with disabilities?
Yes, there are some programs, including:
1. Special Child Welfare Allowance Program
This program is for families with children under 18 with a disability. It helps pay for items and services your child needs because of his or her disability. The monthly amount varies from one person to another. In St. John’s, call Eastern Health at 752-4800. On the Burin Peninsula call 279- 7900.
2. Flat Rate Allowance
Some adults with disabilities receive home support. These adults may receive a flat rate allowance. The amount varies from one person to another. In St. John’s, call Eastern Health at 752-4800. On the Burin Peninsula call 891-5025.
3. Basic Board and Lodging Benefit
This program is for people with disabilities who live on their own or with other families. The amount depends on the person’s income. This is a provincial government program. Call 1-877- 729-7888 for more information.
4. Board and Lodging Supplement (Relatives and Non-Relatives)
If an adult with a disability needs more than the Basic Board and Lodging amount above, they can apply to this program. The adult must be between 18 and 64 years old. He or she must be eligible for board and lodging above or already receiving it. Call Eastern Health in St. John’s at 752-4800. On the Burin Peninsula call 891-5025.
5. Other Special Needs Funding This program pays for minor expenses so a person with a disability can make their home more accessible. Or make small household repairs. Call Eastern Health in St. John’s at 752-4800. On the Burin Peninsula, call 279-7900.
6. Personal Care Homes Subsidy
This is a monthly payment to people moving into a personal care home. It is approved by Eastern Health. For more information or to apply, call 752-4800 in St. John’s. On the Burin Peninsula, call 279-7900. If you are a senior, it would be helpful to call the Seniors Resource Centre’s Information and Referral Line for more information: 737-2333 or 1-800-563-5599.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 26
What if I need help finding housing I can afford? There are some programs available.
1. Rental Housing Program (NLHC)
This program is for people whose income is below a certain level. Or if a person or family spends more than 30% of their income on rent and heat. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing (NLHC) has rental units across the province. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279- 5375.
2. Rental Supplement Program
This program is for people who have a low income and live in private housing. With this program, NLHC pays a supplement to your landlord. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279-5375.
3. The City of St. John’s Non-Profit Housing Division
The City has rental houses available. This includes 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom homes for people who have low or modest incomes. The rent you pay is based on your income. Heat is included in the rent. There are some units for people with disabilities and for single people. There may be waitlists. Call 576-8196. Or go to www.stjohns.ca/cityservices/housing/index.jsp
4. Provincial Home Repair Program
You may have a low income and need repairs to your home. Maybe your home is not safe enough. Or you may have a disability and need to make your home more accessible. Emergency repairs get priority under this NLHC program. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279-5375.
5. Victims of Violence
If you are living with abuse and want to find safe housing that you can afford, NLHC may be able to help. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279-5375.
6. Emergency Support for Victims of Violence
This is another program offered by the provincial government for people living with abuse. Transportation and emergency accommodations will be provided. In St. John’s, call 724-3000. On the Burin Peninsula call 279-5375. Or call Iris Kirby House in St. John’s, 753-1492 or 1-877-753- 1492. On the Burin Peninsula, call Grace Sparkes House, 1-877-774-3562 or email [email protected] 7. Victims of Violence Start Up Allowance
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 27
This program is for people leaving a violent relationship who are eligible for Income Support. It is a provincial government program. This program helps with the costs of setting up a new home if you can’t get your things from your old home. Call 1-877-729-7888 for more information.
A note about contacting these programs
Most likely you already know that it can be hard to contact people in government. It might take a lot of calls to reach a real person. You may be sent from one person to another. Sometimes web sites can be hard to figure out as well. Applications may take a while to get processed.
Getting access to programs often takes a lot of patience. But it will likely be worth the trouble as there will be more money in your pocket in the end. This will benefit your whole family.
Notes:
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 28
Session Six
Making the Transition to Work
Note to trainers: Again, a Question and Answer format is useful here. Trainers should realize that people get most of their information through their informal networks (i.e. family and friends). This information may not be accurate and up to date.
Content Points:
• Recent policy changes encourage people to transition to work from income support • Preparation is necessary to make the transition go as smoothly as possible • Community organizations can help make the transition
Learning Outcome: There are programs and enhancements available that help people make the transition from income support to work or school.
Questions and Answers
1. Will my income support cheque be cut off right away?
No, there is an overlap period when you start work. Officially, it’s 30 days. In practice, this means that you will get your regular income support payment for a few weeks.
2. Will I lose my drug card?
No, you will not lose your drug card. If your new employer doesn’t have a health plan, then you can keep your drug card for six months.
After that you can apply for the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Plan (NLPDP). If your income is low, you may qualify for the NLPDP Access Program. Call 1-888-859-3535 for an application.
If you have very high drug costs, you may qualify for the NLPDP Assurance Plan. Call 1-888- 859-3535 for an application.
3. How will I pay for new clothes, work boots and things I need to go to work?
You may be eligible for the Job Start Benefit. The purpose of the Job Start Benefit is to help people with the extra expenses that come with starting a job. If you are single, the benefit is $125. If you have dependants, it is $250.
4. How will I pay for childcare?
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 29
You may be eligible for the childcare subsidy if you are going to school full- or part-time or if you are working and your employment income is below a certain amount. The subsidy covers up to $30 per day per child. The child must be in regulated childcare (not being cared for by a relative or babysitter). Transportation costs may also be covered.
In the St. John’s area, this $30 probably won’t cover the whole cost as many child care spaces cost $35 a day. So you will have to pay for the rest yourself. In St. John’s call 752-4209.
5. I want to work but I still don’t know if I’m better off financially by going to work?
This is a common worry. It is something some new policies are meant to address. You may qualify for an earnings supplement. The amount is based on certain exemptions which increase the supplement. These exemptions include: a) the first $150.00 a month for a family; $250 if you or someone in your family requires supportive services, plus 20% of your earnings balance; b) the first $75.00 a month for a single person; $150 if you require supportive services, plus 20% of your earnings balance; and c) expenses such as transportation and child care.
6. Who can I call if I want to return to school? Is there any help available?
Yes, all of these programs are available through the provincial government: • Adult Basic Education (ABE) Level 1: 729-7668 • Adult Basic Education (ABE) Level 2: 729-6860 • General Educational Development (GED): 729-7919 • Scholarships for ABE students: 1-888-982-2268 • Student Financial Services (to access student loans and grants): email [email protected] • Student Loan Interest Relief Program: 1-888-815-4514 (if you attended a public institution) • Student Loan Interest Relief Program: 1-866-587-7452 (if you attended a private institution) • Student Loan Corporation (for those who cannot make loan payments): In St. John’s, call 729- 6465. On the Burin Peninsula, call 1-877-520-8800 • Training Services (Labour Market Agreement for People with Disabilities, LMAPD): 1-877- 729-7888
Here are the web sites for the province’s main post-secondary institutions. • Memorial University: www.mun.ca • College of the North Atlantic: www.cna.ca
7. What about if I want to go to work but don’t feel ready for a job or for school?
There are many community organizations that offer job readiness and employment preparation programs. Here are some in the St. John’s area: • Choices for Youth: www.choicesforyouth.ca 726-3125 • Community Centre Alliance: www.ccanl.ca 753-5670 • MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 30
• Eastern Health Employment Services 777-3427 • John Howard Society C-STEP Program (for people with experience of the criminal justice system): www.johnhowardnl.ca 726-5500 • Longside Club (for people with disabilities; short-order cook training program): email [email protected] 722-4338 • Metro Business Opportunities (for people who would like to be self-employed): www.mboc.ca 738-1626 • Murphy Centre: www.murphycentre.nf.net 579.6606 • NLOWE (for women who would like to be self-employed): www.nlowe.org 754-5555 • Salvation Army New Hope Community Centre (Building Maintenance Worker training program): www.salvationarmy.ca/newfoundland • Single Parent Association (SPAN): www.envision.ca/webs/span 738-3401 • Stella Burry: www.stellaburry.ca 738.8390 • Waypoints (for youth): www.youthareworking.ca 738-3392 • Women Interested in Successful Employment (WISE): www.wiseprograms.com 739-1369 • Women in Resource Development Corporation (WRDC): www.wrdc.nf.ca 738-3713
Notes: MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 31
Session 7
Children and Money
Content Points:
1. Teaching Children about Money
• Teaching children makes money real, not something that only adult talk about • Teaching children about money might make them feel more comfortable about it • There are different ways to teach them about it; there is no right way • Children like to learn through activities • People try to keep activities at “age-appropriate” levels • Many parents teach them new things every year
2. Allowances
• Parents may or may not give children an allowance • Allowances can be good practice for children to manage money • Allowances could be a reward from completion of tasks or for good behavior
3. Helping Teens Make Money Decisions
• Getting part-time or full-time summer jobs • What might they spend money on? • Many parents allow teens to make their own mistakes • Ways to advise teens on spending habits
4. College
• Learn together about future schooling needs • Learning Bonds are available to help save for college
Sections
1. Teaching Children about Money
Young children see money as something magical. They don’t understand its limits and they often see it as a grownup thing. Some children may worry or become stressed about money. Learning about it may make them feel more comfortable
There are many ways to teach a child about money. Children like being involved when learning, especially at young ages. You could try: • using school principles with coins (four of these make a dollar, but so do ten of these) MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 32
• using colors (what blue, purple, and green mean) • creating games of pretend buying with real money and prices
As children get older, they can learn more things relating to money like budgets, and the difference between needs and wants.
Some people try to make activities for children at an age level that will not overwhelm them, like creating activities similar to ones they are doing in school.
Exercise: Talk about a funny thing your child said about money and/or:
Exercise: Talk about other ways to teach children about money.
Learning Outcome: Young children don’t understand the real value of money or the meaning of money. There are many different ways to teach children about money.
2. Allowances
When your children get old enough, you might consider giving an allowance to teach a lesson of hard work and reward. Then you can help you child create an allowance budget.
Exercise: Discuss what things children could do to get an allowance.
Learning Outcome: In some cases, allowances can be using in teaching children about money.
3. Helping Teens Make Money Decisions
Many teens get an allowance, receive birthday money or take on part-time jobs. Teens will not always listen or take advice. But making mistakes can be helpful because they learn why they should spend money wisely.
How to help teens with their money: • Create budget with savings • Become the banker to monitor spending choices and give advice if something is really amiss
Exercise: Discuss what items teens might spend their money on, and/or:
Exercise: Discuss different ways to help teens learn how to spend money wisely
Learning Outcome: Many teens are moving into a new phase of handling money. There are different ways to help teens spend their money wisely.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 33
4. Heading to College
Many teens may want to go to college after high school. Each school has their own advising office that will be glad to send information on programs of financial assistance. Many parents and teens review information together to choose which option would be best.
Learning Bonds are available to help save for college. Parents can receive a Leaning Bond from the government for free. Money is put in the account by the government every year ($525 to start off;then $100 per year up to age 15). More information on leaning bond in session 5.
Exercise: Discuss money challenges children may have when going to college
Learning Outcome: Being aware of challenges makes it easier to address these challenges in the future.
Handouts for this Session
Social insurance number applications (necessary for Learning Bonds and part-time jobs). Learning bond pamphlets for those with young children.
Notes:
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 34
Session Eight
Being a Smart Consumer
Content Points:
1. What is Being A Good Consumer?
• The key ingredient is good sense or common sense • Having a balance between what’s necessary and what’s a perk • Having a balance between time and money
2. The Habits of Good Consumers
• Thinking about more than one option • Abandoning the idea: “I must buy it now!” • Knowing that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is • Realizing that people are always trying to sell us things: “Can I get you a muffin with your coffee?” • Asking lots of questions • Knowing when and how to complain • Reading the small print • Knowing about “after sale” pressure: “do you want an extended warranty?” • Understanding that governments (municipal, provincial and federal) have laws to protect consumers • Tracking expenses and trying to stick to a budget • Never co-signing a loan or asking others to co-sign their loans
3. Identity Theft
• This is a real concern for everyone, no matter what your income • There are ways to protect yourself from identity theft
Sections
1. What is Being A Good Consumer?
It’s based on common sense and all about balance. Key questions:
• Is a good consumer someone who knows all the best deals? Maybe –but not if they are buying every “bargain” and spending unnecessarily. • Is a good consumer someone who always get the best price? Maybe—but not if they spend too much time shopping when they could be with family and friends or relaxing
Exercise: What will it actually cost me? MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 35
Discount furniture rental store sofa: valued at $1400 and financed for 92 weeks (almost 2 years, like all their contracts).
The consumer pays $34 a week.
What is the total the consumer will have paid at the end of 52 weeks? $1768
What is the actual value of the sofa at the end of 92 weeks? Not $1400 and certainly not $1768
Learning Outcome: We can all learn to become good consumers. Being a good consumer is not necessarily what we think it is.
2. The Habits of Good Consumers
We can all learn habits that help us become good consumers (these are listed above). The main point is that good consumers are always thinking and considering what to buy and how to buy it; they keep their own financial interests uppermost in their mind.
Exercise: Getting a cell phone
In small groups or the large group, identify the questions a good consumer will ask:
• Do I want a contract or a pre-paid deal? Can I get out of this if I need to? • How many service providers are out there? Does it have to be this one? • What cell phone features are necessary? What ones are frills? • What’s the warranty? What does the fine print say?
Learning Outcome: There are many simple habits we can learn to become good consumers. Good consumers are conscious consumers.
3. Identity Theft
This is a concern for everyone, no matter where they live and no matter what their income is. People with common names seem to be more vulnerable. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize your chances of being a victim of identity theft.
Learning Outcome: There are ways to avoid identity theft.
Handout For This Session
Knowing how and when to complain and ways to avoid identity theft
Notes:
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 36
PART THREE
Hand-outs
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module 37
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session Two
Free Sources of Credit Reports
It is useful to have your own credit report. You can pay for this report if you order it over the internet. But here are two ways to get your credit report for free.
1. Go the Trans-Union office at 55 Bond St., St. John’s with two pieces of ID. Your pieces of ID should show your current address and one should be a picture ID. You will get your credit report right away. www.transunion.ca
2. Phone Equifax in Montreal at 1-800-465-7166 and get the name and mailing address of the person you talk to. You then send them copies of two pieces of ID, showing your current address and one being a picture ID. They will mail your credit report to you. www.equifax.com MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session 3
HOUSEHOLD PRIORITY BUDGET
Name or names: ______
Beginning On: ______
Household Priority Budgeting
This way of budgeting lists payments in order of importance. The most expensive first is listed first, the second most important next, and so on. It will be “easier” to obtain help with the less expensive items on the list (for example, it will be easier to get help with heating costs than rent or mortgage payments).
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Our Household Priority Budget
Our Take-home Pay From all sources is $______
Our First Priority is: Shelter Shelter will cost us $ per month
Our 2nd Priority is: Heat Heat will cost us _ per month
Our 3rd Priority is: Food Food will cost us _ per month
Our 4th Priority is: Utilities Utilities will cost us per month
Our 5th Priority is: Clothing Clothing will cost us per month
Our 6th Priority is: Personal Enjoyment Personal Enjoyment will cost us per month
Our Final Priority is: Debt Debt payments will cost us per month
Our Total Household Priority Cost is $______per month
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Our Take Home Pay is made up of:
1) Income Support $______which arrives on ______
2) Employment
3) EI Benefits ______which arrives on ______
4) WCC Benefits ______which arrives on ______
5) Child Support ______which arrives on ______
6) Family Allowance ______which arrives on ______
7) Disability ______which arrives on ______
8) Pension ______which arrives on ______
9) Other ______which arrives on ______
Total $______
SUMMARY: First priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 2nd priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 3rd priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 4th priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 5th priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 6th priority expense will be paid from income source #______on ______. 7th priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______. 8th priority expense will be paid from income source # ______on ______.
Our Household Priority Budget will be re-evaluated on or around ______, 20_____ MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session Three
Free and Cheap Community Goods and Services on the Burin Peninsula
Legal information and Advice:
Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland: (PLIAN) line giving free information about how the law works, not legal advice. Call 1-888-660-7788. www.publiclegalinfo.com
Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland also has a Lawyer Referral Service. You can meet a lawyer for half an hour at a low rate ($40 or less). Call 1-888-660-7788
Personal Care and Health:
• Newfoundland and Labrador Healthline, Department of Health and Community Services, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: health advice and information from a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Free and completely private. Call 1-888-709-2929. For service in French call 1-888-709-3555. Visit www.yourhealthline.ca
• Smokers’ Helpline, Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association: free support for people wanting to quit or reduce their smoking. Call 1-888-566-5864. Visit www.smokershelp.net
• Mental Health/Addications Program, Marystown. Help in areas of mental health and addications and other community based services. Also offer clinincs in St. Lawrence, Grand Bank and St. Bernards. Call 279-7952
Clothing:
• Burin Peninsula Brighter Futures, 5 Smallwood Crescent., Marystown: clothing exchange program. Call 279-2922
• Sacred Heart Family Aid Committee, Marystown. Used clothing store. Call 279-3156
• Salvation Army Faith and Hope Thrift Store, Burin Bay Arm. Clothing store. Call 279-2863 MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Families with Children:
• Kids in Safe Seats: free clinics to make sure car seats are placed in the car properly. The clinics are run by trained volunteers. To make an appointment, go to www.kidsinsafeseats.ca or call Burin Peninsula Brighter Futures at 279-2922.
• Burin Peninsula Brighter Futures: free programming for families with children 0 to 6, including Healthy Baby Club (for pregnant moms), Family Drop In Play, Loving and Learning (for babies 0 to 6 months), Small Wonders (for children 0 to 3 years old), Preschool (for ages 4 and 5), and Parenting Programs, such as How to Talk so Kids Will Listen. Locations include: Smallwood Crescent., Marystown; Black Duck Cove; St. Lawrence, Lamaline, Lawn, St. Bernard’s, Bay L’Argent; Terrenceville; Grand Le Pierre, Grand Bank and Fortune. Transportation may be provided. Call 279-2922
• Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Eastern Newfoundland, The Village Shopping Centre, 2nd Floor: mentoring programs to children and youth age 6 to 16 from single parent families. Call 1-877-513-5437 or email [email protected] Visit www.helpingkids.ca
• Burin Bay Arm Public Library, Main Rd.: Story time for children; free but you have to register. Call 891-1924
• Grand Bank Public Library, 10 Church St.: Story time for children; free but you have to register. Call 832-0310
• St. Lawrence Public Library, St. Lawrence Academy: Story time for children; free but you have to register. Call 873-2650
Food Hampers:
• Grand Bank/Fortune Community Care Centre, 31 Water St. Call 832-0240 • Sacred Heart Family Aid Food Bank, Marystown. Call 279-2651 • Salvation Army, Faith and Hope Food Bank Burin Bay Arm. Call 279-2863 • St. Patrick’s Food Bank, Burin. Call 891-1376
Cooking:
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
• Burin Peninsula Brighter Futures: Basic Shelf, a six-week program that teaches how to cook healthy meals cheaply. Call 279- 2922
• Smallwood Crescent Community Centre, Marystown. Community Kitchens. Call: 279-3643
Arts and Entertainment:
• Burin Bay Arm Public Library, Main Rd.: Free books, DVDs, CDs, scanning and digital camera loan and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Call 891-1924.
• Garnish Public Library, Sunset Drive: Free books, DVDs, CDs, scanning, and digital camera loan and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Call 836-2371
• Grand Bank Public Library, 10 Church St.: Free books for loan, including large print books, audio books, DVDs, CDs, scanning, printing and digital camera loan and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Also has a study room. Call 832-0310
• Marystown Public Library, Columbia Drive: Free books for loan, audio books, study room, DVDs, CDs, free scanning, printing and digital camera loan and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Call 279-1501
• St. Lawrence Public Library, St. Lawrence Academy: Free books for loan, including large print books, as well as DVDs, CDs, digital camera; scanning, computer training, printing, and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Call 873-2650
• Fortune Public Library, Temple St.: Free books for loan as well as DVDs, CDs, and a digital camera, free scanning, and access to the whole collection of the provincial library system. Call 832-0232
Internet/Computer access:
• Burin Bay Arm Public Library, Main Rd. Call 891-1924. • Garnish Public Library, Sunset Drive. Call 836-2371 • Grand Bank Public Library, 10 Church St. Call 832-0310 MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
• Marystown Public Library, Columbia Drive. Call 279-1501 • St. Lawrence Public Library, St. Lawrence Academy. Call 873-2650 • Fortune Public Library. Call 832-0232 • Fortune Community Youth Centre, Temple Street. Call 832-2572 • Christ the King School, Rushoon, Internet access, digital camera for loan, scanning available. Call 443-2293 or email [email protected] • Swift Current Academy: Internet access, digital camera for loan, scanning available. Call 579-2377 or email [email protected]
Youth
• Main Street Youth Cenre Inc/Community Youth Network (CYN), Grand Bank. Provide programs and activities for youths in recreation, education and support services. Call 832-2682
• St. Lawrence Community Youth Network, St. Lawrence. Drop in youth centre. Call 873-3434
• Fortune Community Youth Centre, Fortune. Call 832-2428
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Free and Cheap Items in the St. John’s area
NAME DESCRIPTION TELEPHONE / WEBSITE EMAIL Legal information and Advice Public Legal Information Warm line giving free information about 722-2643 or www.publiclegalinfo.com 1 Association of Newfoundland how the law works, not legal advice. 1-888-660-7788 (PLIAN) Public Legal Information Has a Lawyer Referral Service. You can 722-2643 or 2 Association of Newfoundland meet a lawyer for half an hour at a low 1-888-660-7788 (PLIAN) rate ($40 or less). Clothing and Household Items Virginia Plaza, Newfoundland Drive: free 738-3405 www.spanl.ca Single Parents Association of clothing, toys, books and household 1 Newfoundland items. Wed. & Fri. 10am-1pm, 1:30- 2:45pm. Kenmount Road: clothing, furniture, 726-5200 books, footwear, household items, 2 Value Village bedding, toys, Christmas and Halloween things. 72 Hamlyn Rd., 51 Kenmount Rd., Villa 753-5841 for Kenmount Nova Plaza, Manuels, Conception Bay Rd. or 747-1414 for South: clothing, toys, household items, Hamlyn Road 3 Salvation Army Thrift Stores furniture, including new mattresses at the Kenmount Rd. store.
Main Rd., Kelligrews, Conception Bay 834-9786 4 Sandy’s Used Clothing South: new and used clothing and footwear. Torbay Rd. Mall, Torbay Rd.: new and 579-7390 Frenchy’s Thrift Boutique 5 used clothing, accessories, footwear, toys,
household items. Occasional sales MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
offering fill a grocery bag with children’s clothing for $15. Sign up for email notices to hear about these sales. Various products and services by local www.groupon.com Groupon 6 companies; items change daily; sign up to
receive e-notices. MacMorran Community 10 Brother McSheffrey Lane , St. John’s: 722-1168 7 Centre free clothing. Jimmy Pratt Memorial George St. United Church: free clothing. 726-8775. www.georgestunitedchurch 8 Outreach Centre .com Personal Care and Health 172 Military Road (in the old Mercy 753-3234 1 The Gathering Place School next to the Basilica): free haircuts Department of Health and Community 1-709-2929 Services, Government of Newfoundland Newfoundland and Labrador and Labrador: health advice and 2 Health-line information from a registered nurse, 24
hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Free and completely private. Newfoundland and Labrador Lung 1-888-566-5864 www.smokershelp.net Association, 292 LeMarchant Rd.: free 3 Smokers’ Helpline support for people wanting to quit or reduce their smoking. 203 Merrymeeting Rd.: free condoms and 579-1009 www.nlsexualhealthcentre. packages of lubricant; free pregnancy org Planned Parenthood of 4 tests for those with low incomes. Newfoundland and Labrador Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays 9-5; Wednesdays 12-5; and Thursdays 12-8. Meals 172 Military Road (in the old Mercy 753-3234. www.georgestunitedchurch 1 The Gathering Place School next to the Basilica): Lunch, .com Mon.-Fri. 11am-1:15pm. Breakfast, MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Mon. 8:30-9:30am. George St. United Church: Friday lunch, 726-8775 Jimmy Pratt Memorial 10:00 to 12:30. There is also a 2 Outreach Centre Friendship Corner with TV, movies, and
internet access Gower St. United Church (Gower St. 722-8848 or 738-7911. www.fortheloveoflearning. entrance, ring buzzer), 99 Queen's Rd.: org 3 For the Love of Learning Inc. Daily food served-nutritious, delicious & cheap for young adults age 15-35, Mon. – Fri. 12-6pm. 99 Queen's Rd.: Seniors' Club- once-a- 753-7286 or email www.gowerunited.ca month social gathering, full-course meal [email protected] 4 Gower St. United Church at a reasonable cost, entertainment, transportation support from Men's Club.
Food Hampers Virginia Plaza: food hampers for single 738-3405 Single Parents Association of 1 parent families. Wed. & Fri. 10am-1pm, Newfoundland 1:30-2:45pm 39 Cookstown Road: food bank and 726-9247 Bridges to Hope 2 community kitchen. Tues. 11:00-1:00,
Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 10:00-1:00pm. Memorial University, Box 2 (in 737-3467 or email http://munsu.ca/section/107 basement), Corte Real Building, Burtons [email protected] 3 Campus Food Bank Pond Apartments, St. John’s. Mon. & Thur. 3:30-5:30, 7-8pm, Sun 4-5pm.
Bell Island Caring and (in the Boys and Girls Club), Bell Island: to make an appointment: 4 Sharing Food Bank Mon. & Fri. 2-4pm. 488-2656 Church of the Good 111 Richard Nolan Drive, Mount Pearl 747-1022 5 Shepherd, 6 Conception Bay 2638 Topsail Rd, Unit 2, CBS 834-2800 MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
South/Paradise Community Mon.-Fri. 9am-2pm. Food Bank Waterford Bridge Rd. (behind the 364-4116 church), St. John’s: Mon., Wed. & Fri Corpus Christi St. Vincent De 7 10am-12pm, First and third Saturday of Paul Food Bank the month, 10am-12pm, except July & August Emmaus House Food Bank (behind St. Bon’s School) 200 Military 576-6632 8 Rd., St. John’s. Mon. – Fri.,1-3pm. Mary, Queen of Peace Food 135 Torbay Rd., St. John’s. Wed. 9:30- 726-9924
Bank 12:30pm only Mary Queen of the World- St. 775 Topsail Rd., Mount Pearl: Tuesday & 368-5181 leave a message 9 Vincent de Paul Society Friday. to make an appointment Adams Ave., St. John’s: Wed. 9:30-3pm, 579-2022 or 726-0393 10 Salvation Army closed 12-1pm for lunch. Salvation Army Mount Pearl 106 Ashford Drive, Mount Pearl: Mon. 364-6465 11 Food Bank 12-2pm, Tues. & Fri. 10:30-2:30pm. St. Kevin’s Family Aid Food Main Rd., Goulds (Basement of Parish 745-8183 or email 12 Bank Hall) Mon-Fri by appointment. [email protected] St. Paul’s Family Aid Food 340A Newfoundland Drive, St. John’s. 9- 754-1980 13 Bank 1pm. St. Peter’s Parish St. Vincent 110 Ashford Drive, Mount Pearl: Mon. - 747-3320 14 de Paul Society Thur., 7-7:30pm. St. Pius X Food Bank, 10 Brother McSheffrey Lane, St. John’s: 722-1168 or 754-0170 15 MacMorran Community Mon. –Fri. 9-5pm. Centre 120 Mundy Pond Rd., St. John’s. Mon.– 579-0065 St. Teresa’s Parish Food Bank, 16 Fri. before 1 and they will deliver St. Vincent De Paul Society between 5 and 7pm. United Church Food Aid 81 Cochrane Street 722-9225 17 Centre St. John's Status of Women Moving to Cashin Ave.: emergency food 753-0220 18 Council & Women's Centre for women and children. For women MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
dealing with complex issues- meals/tea/coffee. 206 Duckworth Street: Healthy meals, 754-0841 www.cyn-stjohns.nf.ca outreach, supplies-clothing/blankets, telephone access, harm reduction Street Reach Outreach Meal- services, primarily youth 15-29. 19 Community Youth Network Monday: 10am-12noon,
Tuesday: 2:30pm-3:30pm and 7pm-10pm Thursday: 2:30pm-3:30pm and 7pm- 10pm Friday: 2:30pm-3:30pm. 74 The Boulevard: ‘emergency food 726-8373 or email cupboard’ for Daybreak families. prodgers@daybreakcentre. Daybreak Parent Child 20 com or Centre mbethel@daybreakcentre. com Community Gardens Rabbittown Community Centre, 26 Email www.feastnl.ca or Rabbittown Community Graves St.: vegetable/herb garden [email protected] www.rabbittown.ca 1 Garden coordinated by the Community Garden Alliance. Independent Living Resource Centre, 4 722-4031 or email www.ilrc.nf.ca Debbie Prim Memorial Escasoni Pl.: community garden [email protected]. 2 Garden programs for people with disabilities designed by people with disabilities. Brother Jim McSheffrey MacMorran Community Centre: 40 plot 722-1168 or www.macmorran.ca 3 Community Garden community garden. [email protected].
Brighter Futures Community Mt. Scio Rd.: A community garden for 739-8096 or email www.brighter-futures.net 4 Garden Brighter Futures families. [email protected].
Oxen Pond Community Community Garden with 36 12'x8' plots 722-6604 or email Visit Food Education 5 Garden and a Family Garden. GrowingInPippyPark@gmail Action St. John’s MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
.com (FEASt): http://www.feastnl.ca/ United Church Food Aid 81 Cochrane Street: community garden. 722-9225 6 Centre
Community Kitchens West Heights Tenants 2 Eagle Court: Community kitchen, low 579-5544 1 Association cost meals, cooking skills, healthy eating.
Community kitchen program planned for 739-0291 2 Salvation Army Call Fall and Winter. Arts, Entertainment and Sports Bonaventure Ave., St. John’s: free 752-8000 www.therooms.ca admission to art gallery and museum on The Rooms Provincial the first Saturday of every month; free 1 Museum, Art Gallery and admission to the archives anytime; Archives sometimes there are free receptions for art shows, free talks by artists, writers, etc. 202-223 Duckworth St. (Haymarket 739-5215 www.wanl.ca Writers Alliance of 2 Square): free readings by local authors at Newfoundland and Labrador different locations. free books, magazines, videos, DVDs, A.C. Hunter - 737-2133, www.nlpl.ca CDs; author talks, workshops on taking Children’s Library - 37- pictures, winter camping, bird watching, 3953, both in the Arts and etc. Culture Centre 3 Provincial Public Libraries Michael Donovan, 655 Topsail Rd. - 737-2621 Marjorie Mews, 12 Highland Drive - 737-3020 35 Barnes Rd., St. John’s: Nagle 753-8760 or email www.thelantern.nf.net 4 The Lantern Resource Library, books and DVDs about [email protected]. MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
spirituality, the environment, etc. net free outdoor concerts downtown during 311 See www.thescope.ca or the summer. The City also has free the Go Guide in Thursday’s 5 City of St. John’s swimming for all ages during the summer Telegram. at the Bannerman Park pool and the Bowring Park pool. It is free to visit the downtown art galleries: the Leyton Gallery, A1C Gallery, Red Ochre Gallery, Emma Butler Gallery, Christina Parker Gallery, the 6 Galleries Craft Council Gallery on Devon Row, across from the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland, and Focal Point Gallery & Printing, 116 Duckworth. For Families with Children Unit 22, 50 Pippy Place free play groups 754-7090 or email www.familyandchildcareco for children 0 to 6 and their parents or [email protected] nnections.com Family and Childcare caregivers; Tuesday 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 1 Connections a.m. (open to all); Wednesday 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (for child care providers only); Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Besides free swimming in city pools 311 during the summer, the City’s REAL Program offers free sports activities for children under 18 throughout the year: 2 City of St. John’s Art, Music, Dance, Soccer, Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Martial Arts, Skating, Gymnastics, Swimming, and Hockey. You need to apply for the REAL Program. Daybreak Parent-Child 74 The Boulevard, St. John’s: Health 726-8373 or email 3 Centre Baby Club with food supplements and prodgers@daybreakcentre. MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
cooking workshops for youth 21 and com or under, cooking group and healthy living [email protected] group for parents & caregivers, daycare om services for children or families with special needs, etc. free play groups with caregivers/parents, 726-8373 or email To see the play group aged 0-6 with healthy snacks provided, [email protected] calendar possibility of free transportation; Family om daybreakcentre.com/progra Fun Days; Mother Goose Program- ms_deedfri.htm Daybreak East End singing and nursery rhyme sessions; sites 4 Downtown Family Resource include the Kirk, Bishop Field School, Initiative (DEEDFRI): Bond St., Choices for Youth, Carter’s Hill, Key Assets, 120 Lemarchant Road, Daybreak Parent-Child Centre, 74 The Boulevard. : free play groups for parents with 739-8096 or email www.brighter-futures.net children 0-6 with healthy snacks dcapps@brighter- provided, possibility of free futures.net transportation; Level Best Bulk Food Buying Club; Mother Goose program; nutrition tools for pregnant mothers, etc. Brighter Futures Coalition of Sites include St. John Bosco Family 5 St. John's and District Resource Centre, Shea Heights, Buckmasters Circle Community Centre, Reid Community Centre, Mount Pearl, Bell Island Family Resource Centre, Paradise Family Resource Centre, Holy Cross Elementary, St. Clare Avenue, Torbay Family Resource Centre, etc. 6 Bridges to Hope 39 Cookstown Road: toy lending library. 726-9247 free clinics to make sure that car seats are To make an appointment, 7 Kids in Safe Seats placed in the car properly. The clinics are go to run by trained volunteers. www.kidsinsafeseats.ca MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
100 Crosbie Rd. free supervised gym play and equipment for aged 0-6 with 8 Swilers Rugby Club caregivers/parents, Tuesday and Thursday, 10-12 Arts and Culture Centre, St. John’s free 737-3953 9 Children’s Library storytimes for children 0-6 throughout the year. Memorial University, Elizabeth Ave. 864-8130 www.mun.ca/hkr/about/C (Phys. Ed. Building, next to the Works): MP.php the Physical Literacy Experience: free supervised gym play between walking School of Kinesiology and age 5; Saturday mornings, three 10 sessions: 9:30 - 10:25 am, 10:30 - 11:25 am; the third session from 11:45 am - 1:00 pm is open only to children registered with Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador. 716 Water St. (corner of Leslie St.): free 726-5902 St. John’s Native Friendship after-school program for children age 6 11 Centre and up, with healthy snacks and free transportation, open to non-members. The Village Shopping Centre, 2nd Floor: 368-KIDS (5437) or email www.helpingkids.ca mentoring programs to children and [email protected] Big Brothers/Big Sisters of youth age 6 to 16 from single parent 12 Eastern Newfoundland families.
Internet Access A.C. Hunter Public Library (737-2133), 1-877-929-1829 www.nfcap.nf.ca Community Access Programs Arts and Culture Centre; Michael 1 Donovan Public Library, 655 Topsail Rd. (737-2621); Marjorie Mews Public MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Library, 12 Highland Drive (737-3020); St. John’s Native Friendship Centre, 716 Water St. (corner of Leslie St.) (726- 5902); Froude Ave. Community Centre (579-0763); Virginia Park Community Centre, 1134 Harding Rd. (579-4534); Rabbittown Community Centre, 26 Graves St. (739-8482); Buckmasters Circle Community Centre, 129 Brigade St. (579-0718); Goulds Recreational Building, 509 Main Rd. (745-7454); Independent Living Resource Centre, 4 Escasoni Place (722-4031). Some sites have digital cameras, scanners, printers, CD burners, etc. Jimmy Pratt Memorial George St. United Church: internet access 726-8775. www.georgestunitedchurch.com 2 Outreach Centre during Friday lunch, 10:00 to 12:30.
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session Three
50 plus ways to save 50 cents a day—why not try some?
Note to trainers: Some exercises are also suggested that you may want to use for your group.
Buying Gifts: 1. Buy birthday and other cards at the dollar store; you don’t have to buy anything else there! Another option is to make homemade cards—you could use kids’ art 2. Use your kids’ drawings as gifts; you can get frames for them at the dollar store 3. Buy cards and wrapping paper for next Christmas in late December or early January 4. Give homemade gifts instead of store-bought gifts (Exercise: brainstorming about homemade gifts)
Around the House: 5. Make your own window cleaner from vinegar and water 6. Recycle: get cash for your bottles and cartons 7. Turn the heat down and wear a sweater one evening a week 8. Block cold air getting in through your windows and doors
Food: 9. Freeze foods and write the date on them so you’ll know when to use them 10. Dry or freeze fresh herbs like parsley 11. Eat leftovers 12. Eat oatmeal for breakfast 13. Don’t confuse the corner store with the grocery store (Coleman’s, Sobey’s, Dominion); only use the corner store in emergencies (Exercise: price comparisons) 14. Eat Newfoundland vegetables: potatoes, carrots, turnip and cabbage 15. Stay away from snack machines 16. Bake 17. Drink water with meals 18. Buy frozen juice instead of cartons of juice 19. Grow at least one food you like to eat (Exercise: brainstorming about what to grow and where to grow it) 20. Don’t shop for food on an empty stomach
Shopping: 21. Use cash instead of plastic 22. Stay away from sales. . . 23. . . .But ‘buy one, get one free’ is good 24. Go to a flea market 25. Plan your route when shopping or doing chores
Clothes: 26. Read the labels on food, clothing and electronics 27. Buy used clothes; borrow kids’ clothes MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
28. Buy all the same socks so it won’t matter when you lose one 29. Buy sensible shoes
Saving: 30. Check inside your pockets and inside purses before you give anything away 31. Start a piggybank 32. Put a loonie away for every $100 that comes into your house 33. Give your children the same allowance every week on the same day 34. Roll pennies and nickels 35. Vacuum the couch and keep the change 36. Ask your bank for a better rate on their fees 37. Don’t use bank machines at other banks; only use your own bank or one of its branches 38. Ask for a senior or student discount 39. Sell used school books when you have finished the course 40. Get cable and your phone from the same company (Rogers or Aliant); avoid satellite dishes (Exercise: about bundling, comparison costs) 41. Say “no, thanks” to salespeople and telemarketers
Odds and Ends: 42. Smoke one less cigarette every day 43. Colour your own hair instead of going to a salon 44. Lend and borrow books and DVDs; don’t forget the library 45. Take a homemade lunch to work, instead of buying your lunch (Exercise: showing how much you can save in a month) 46. Volunteer at least two hours a week 47. Brew your own beer 48. Get together with friends or family to buy your usual number of lottery tickets—don’t buy extra tickets
Health: 49. Ask your doctor to order “generic brand” drugs (these are the same drugs, only cheaper) 50. Floss your teeth 51. If you are feeling pressure because of money, get help
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session Three Cleaning your House with Vinegar
• Remember: never mix vinegar and bleach!
• Clean sink and tub with full-strength vinegar. Use a sponge and wipe clean.
• Soak paper towels in vinegar and wrap them around the bathroom fixtures. Let the paper towels sit for one hour, and then wipe clean.
• Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 5 cups of water. Dip newspaper pages into it and wipe your windows until they are almost dry. Then wipe them with a dry newspaper page.
• To remove carpet smells, sprinkle the carpet with baking soda. Then vacuum the carpet after about 15 minutes.
• To unclog a drain: dump 1 cup of baking soda down your drain. Then dump 1 cup of vinegar down your drain. The foaming will clean your drain. After a few minutes, let hot water flow into the drain for a few minutes.
• You can cut grease off pots and pans by adding a little vinegar to the dishwater. Or use it to remove grease off the stove and kitchen walls.
• To clean the microwave: Put 2 cups of water and 1/2 cup vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. Then put it in the microwave. Put on full power for 3 or 4 minutes (it needs to boil). Then keep your microwave closed for a few minutes—it will be steamy in there. Then open your microwave, carefully remove the bowl, and wipe clean.
• Clean and shine vinyl or canvas floors: Mix 1 gallon of water with 1/2 cup vinegar in a bucket. Then mop or scrub your floors with it.
• You can put vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to clean the toilet.
• Clean the shower walls: Dampen a cloth with water and vinegar. Then wipe your shower walls. Mold and mildew will not grow if you do this.
• To remove smoke and other odors from your clothes: Fill the bathtub with hot water. Then pour in one or two cups of vinegar. Hang smelly clothes on hangers along your shower curtain rod. No need for dry cleaning!
• You can use vinegar to get rid of stickers on furniture.
• You can also use vinegar as a stain remover for your clothes. MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session 4: Supermarket Shopping Guide
Good habits Week One Week Two Week Three Week Four Plan meals before you • go shopping
Use Canada’s Food • Guide to help you plan meals
Plan your shopping • around specials and sales (but buy the specials only if you need them and will use them)
Make a list as you run • out of groceries and follow it closely when you shop
Stay within the amount Went over a little you have set aside for bit groceries—your grocery budget
Read the ingredients Did this some of list on the foods you the time buy so you know exactly what you are buying
Shop by yourself, if Have to take the possible kids
Shop soon after you • have eaten, not when you are hungry
Buy the least amount • of convenience or ready-made food you can
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Look at the cost per serving, rather than the total cost
Look at the amount of each food item and its practical use
Shop for food above or • below eye level; the food is cheaper than the food that is right at eye level
Shop in the middle of • the week
Shop at more than one store if you can
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session 4: Community Gardens
Community gardens in the St. John’s area have grown many kinds of vegetables: carrots, turnip, cabbage, potatoes, zucchini, peas, beans, pumpkin, squash, broccoli, tomatoes, herbs like parsley and savoury, etc.
The Community Garden Alliance supports community gardens in the city. The Community Garden Alliance is a great source of information. You can join their Facebook group: Community Garden Alliance Or you can email them: [email protected]
MONEY- A Financial Literacy Program: Train-the-Trainer’s Module
Session Eight
Knowing When and How to Complain
• Be aware that there is usually very little a salesclerk can do to help you • Find the best level of management to complain to • Complain in an unemotional way, never raising your voice or making personal comments • Stick to the facts • Say clearly what you’d like: “I want a new toaster to replace this one” • Know when to walk away
Ways to Avoid Identity Theft
• Beware of phone calls that come out of the blue, phone calls you don’t expect • Delete emails from banks and other lenders • Delete emails from people overseas who say they want to give you money • Never give out your social insurance number, except to an employer or government agency • Don’t share your bank account information or your PIN number
Contact Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador Suite 201, Virginia Plaza, Nfld. Drive St. John’s, NL A1A 3E9 Tel: 709-753-9860 Fax: 709-753-6112 Email: [email protected] Website: www.communitysector.nl.ca
Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador 22 Queen’s Road, St. John’s, NL A1C 2A5 Tel: (709) 753-5812 or toll free 1-888-738-3328 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.creditanddebtsolutions.ca/