Single Mom on Her Way to Financial Freedom
Lacy Ames • January 11, 2021
Single Mom on Her Way to Financial Freedom
Kristina is a single mom to two teenage boys. She eventually found herself in a tough situation, where she had acquired a lot of debt over the years. She thought she would never be able to pay it all off.
Kristina had always had an interest in homeownership but like many others thought that she would never be able to realize such a dream on a single household income. She began to feel hopeful, though, when one of her single-mom friends told her about the success she’d had with Interfaith Housing Alliance’s (IHA) Purchase Repair Homeownership program - and that it all started with an IHA workshop called the Credit Cafe. That was all Kristina needed to hear.
Kristina now believes “everyone should attend the Credit Café so that they can learn how to manage their credit. Financial freedom is an amazing feeling, knowing you can get better rates, save money, and get out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. So, everyone should go to the Credit Café to learn ways to pay off debt and increase those credit scores.”
Kristina knew her first step to homeownership was to pay off her debt, so she made the leap. In April 2018, she attended IHA’s Credit Café where she participated in a group workshop to learn general tips and tricks for improving and building her credit score. Afterwards, she met one-on-one with a credit advisor who guided her on how to apply the tips and tricks she learned in the workshop to increase her personal credit score and decrease her debt quickly.
Kristina’s journey to financial freedom did not come easy. It required even more sacrifice before she could begin reaping the benefits. She began picking up extra hours at her job, persevering through long work hours and saving up money to pay down her debts. She started introducing the Credit Café’s tips and tricks into her everyday spending habits and became a member of IHA’s first-ever monthly Single Moms group.
Just nine months later, Kristina returned to the Credit Café where her advisor delivered some great news: she was able to pay off $2,402 in outstanding debt and raise her credit score from 578 to 637. This amazing accomplishment in such a short period of time is a true inspiration to others out there with similar stories and experiences.
“I haven't purchased a home quite yet and I had to seek pre-approval through another lender. But this wouldn't have been made possible if it wasn't for me attending the Credit Cafés. I have become so knowledgeable on how to control my credit score and it keeps climbing.” IHA has no doubt that Kristina will achieve her dream of homeownership after all she has already accomplished with her finances. To register for a Credit Café, contact Lacy Ames at 301-788-0239 or lames@interfaithhousing.org.
Exciting, the final renovations of the last two units are underway at Weinberg House, a long-standing affordable senior living community in Fredrick, Maryland. Originally built in 1994, the property provided safe, stable housing for older adults for decades. Renovations began on May 1, 2023. At that time, they had a total of 23 units to renovate. The renovations included freshly painted walls, new carpet in the bedrooms, new flooring in the other rooms, new cabinets in the bathroom, as well as new kitchen cupboards, fixtures and new appliances. The final two units will be ready for lease up June 15, 2026. The renovation of Weinberg House represents a meaningful investment in both people and place. By modernizing the property while protecting its mission, this project will help ensure that affordable, welcoming housing remains available for seniors for years to come. It is an encouraging example of how thoughtful redevelopment can strengthen communities and honor the residents who call them home.
In March 2026, IHA was awarded a $50,000 grant through the Frederick County Government’s Helping Empower Area Resources Together (HEART). These one-time operational funds were awarded to mitigate the effects of the longest federal government shutdown in history. This grant has allowed IHA to continue providing essential programs and services to Frederick County residents despite challenges at the federal level. IHA was also awarded a $5,000 grant from the City of Frederick through the Community Promotion Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively. In April 2026, IHA was also awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, including our homeownership and financial education programming. IHA’s Purchase-Repair Program provides an avenue to homeownership for those who otherwise would not qualify for a traditional home loan. In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp helps participants improve their skills in budgeting, saving, debt reduction, and financial goal setting. The Frederick Affordable Housing Incubator (FAHI) brings multiple sectors together to increase the affordable housing inventory in Frederick County.
For 36 years, the Interfaith Housing Alliance has stood beside individuals and families as they navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. What began as a mission rooted in compassion and community partnership has grown into an organization that continues to make a lasting impact across our region, helping families find stability, build financial confidence, and create brighter futures. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are not only reflecting on where we have been, but also recognizing the incredible growth, resilience, and innovation that continue to shape IHA today. Over the past 36 years, IHA has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community while remaining committed to the same core belief: everyone deserves access to safe housing, financial education, and the opportunity to thrive. Through housing counseling, financial education workshops, community partnerships, and affordable housing initiatives, IHA has empowered thousands of individuals and families with the tools, support, and stability needed to move forward with confidence. Beyond education and counseling services, IHA’s long-standing commitment to affordable housing development has helped create lasting impact throughout the community. Over the years, IHA has developed, built, and managed affordable housing units that have provided safe, stable homes for countless individuals and families. These housing initiatives represent more than buildings, they represent opportunity, dignity, and the foundation for stronger futures. The growth and preservation of affordable housing remains a vital part of IHA’s legacy and ongoing mission. Behind every program, every workshop, and every success story is a community of people who believe in the work we do. Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters have played an essential role in helping IHA grow over the last three and a half decades. Their dedication and belief in our mission continue to fuel the impact we are able to make every day. Most importantly, we celebrate the individuals and families who have trusted IHA to be part of their journey. Every financial goal reached, every housing challenge overcome, and every moment of renewed confidence is a reminder of why this work matters. As we look ahead, we remain focused on continuing to innovate, educate, and advocate for stronger communities. The need for affordable housing resources and financial empowerment remains as important as ever, and IHA is committed to meeting that need with the same compassion and determination that has defined the organization for the past 36 years. Thank you for being part of the Interfaith Housing Alliance story. Together, we celebrate 36 years of impact and look forward to the many more lives we will continue to support in the years ahead.