NY Department of State awards $1.1M to expand financial literacy programs

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Eleven community-based organizations were awarded funding to offer financial literacy programs across six regions in New York. Each organization will receive a $100,000 grant from the New York Department of State.

Financial literacy programs will be available to New Yorkers with incomes at or under 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. New Yorkers with limited English proficiency will also have access to language services.

The programs will be managed by the Department of State's Division of Community Services. They will be available in the following regions:

• New York City
• Capital Region
• Mohawk Valley
• Western New York
• Southern Tier
• Finger Lakes

Participants who meet the eligibility criteria will be provided with coaching sessions by financial professionals. These sessions will be focused on educating participants about budgeting and financial management. The coaching will cover a range of topics including credit scores, opening checking and savings accounts, asset building, and avoiding financial scams.