Port State Bank to match financial education grant

Port Washington State Bank, which earlier this summer announced it had received a $5,000 Housing and Economic Development Grant from the Wisconsin Bankers Association to support housing, economic development, community investment and financial, cyber and housing literacy is matching that grant.

The bank will partner with St. Vincent de Paul to launch a structured financial education program focused on a Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World workshop.

“This program is a strong representation of our values in that financial literacy brings about financial independence,” Bank President and CEO James Schowalter said.

“St. Vincent de Paul is an important community partner in helping individuals and families in Ozaukee County to not just get back on their feet, but to get ahead and feel confident in their future. We are proud to partner with St. Vincent de Paul to help them achieve that mission.”

By combining their expertise, the Getting Ahead program will provide participants with practical skills, confidence, and a roadmap toward a more secure financial future, strengthening families and the broader Ozaukee County community along the way.

The 16-session course is designed to help individuals and families build financial stability and will guide participants through identifying barriers, developing financial tools, setting goals and creating long-term plans for economic independence.

Ultimately, the initiative aims to help people move beyond the need for short-term assistance by giving them the knowledge to achieve financial stability.

The program will offer small stipends to encourage participation.

“Financial literacy and housing assistance give individuals and families in our

state the foundation they need to succeed,”

Rose Oswald Poels, president and CEO of

the Wisconsin Bankers Association, said.

“We are proud to provide this grant opportunity that allows banks and nonprofit organizations to strengthen their programs.

Together we can empower Wisconsin’s citizens toward homeownership and brighter financial futures.”

For more information on the program, visit svdpozaukee.org/getting-ahead.