Client Stories

Extending a Hand Up

Empowering people to make their dreams come true, SEED’s IDA program (Individual Development Account) allows individuals and families who are living on low incomes to invest in assets that will provide long-term benefits.

Assets include: post-secondary education, buying or renovating a home, starting or expanding a small business, and disability supports.

Participants attend Money Management Training, save for one to two years, and then purchase their asset.

“I am very grateful that I was one of the chosen few to benefit from such a great program,” says Jose Navida. “The staff was a great help, they were accommodating and considerate. They taught my wife and me how to manage our finances and save towards my education.”

Navida participated in the program so he could pursue his education in Canada, a way to land a better job because professional and academic credentials of immigrants are not always recognized.

With the financial help that the IDA program extended, it gave my family financial relief.

“With the financial help that the IDA program extended, it gave my family financial relief,” Navida says. It covered a great part of the tuition fees and books. I am now in the process of finishing my studies to become a Registered Nurse.”

Asset Building Program Coordinator Aileen Krush supported Navida in the program. “For Jose, I think the biggest benefit is the help to pay for his nursing education and the chance to make a better life for himself and his family. The IDA program is not a handout – participants work hard to acquire these assets, and the assets often make a huge difference in the quality of their lives.”

Navida appreciated the opportunity for personal and professional development. “After finishing my studies it will give me an opportunity to better our lives and to give back to the community,” he says.