SOUTHFIELD – Gesher Human Services, one of the largest human service agencies in metro Detroit, is offering two free zoom workshops, full of practical tips to help Michiganders enjoy the holidays without succumbing to financial stress. Enjoy the Holidays, Not the Debt: A Guide to Minimal Credit Usage Part 1 and Part 2 will be held on Friday, Dec. 5, and Friday, Dec. 12, both at 1 p.m. Registration is at www.geshermi.org/events.
“The holiday season is a time for joy, not financial stress, but with prices so high and social pressure on many of us to buy expensive gifts and entertain extravagantly, many people start the new year with a mountain of debt,” Gesher’s Financial Education Manager Laltsha Cunningham, said. “Our workshops will provide practical, easy-to-implement strategies to help you navigate the festive season while keeping your credit card usage to a minimum.”
In the workshops, participants will learn how to:
- Create a realistic holiday budget so they know exactly what they can afford.
- Plan gift-giving strategically to find thoughtful presents without overspending; this could include exchanging services, shopping at thrift stories. Before buying anything make a complete list of every person on your list and a firm, non-negotiable spending dollar limit next to their name.
- Leverage cash and debit cards for a more intentional spending experience; if you get a gift card to a store, for example, consider using that to purchase household items you need rather than luxury items. Stack purchases with sales and coupons for the lowest prices.
- Explore creative, low-cost alternatives for gifts, decorations, and celebrations. Shop off season when you can. Suggest a Secret Santa instead of traditional gift giving which is fun and economical.
- Establish healthy financial habits that will benefit participants far beyond the holiday season. For example, designate a “Splurge Card” (Debit Only) by moving a small, pre-budgeted amount of money into a secondary checking account linked to a specific debit card. Use this account only for “fun” or discretionary spending to enjoy guilt-free purchases.
For more information on the workshops call 248.233.4422 or email [email protected]. Gesher Human Services also provides one-on-one financial counseling to the community which can be scheduled by calling 248.233.4299 or email [email protected].
