When I heard about the Family Development Account (FDA) program, I thought I might qualify and hoped the program could help me to purchase a reliable car. I worked with my NVME coach to set up an FDA account in December of 2022.

I had a car when I started the program, but it broke down and it had no trade-in value. For months, I had to borrow a car to get me where I needed to go.

Over about one year I successfully saved $1,000 and collected $4,000 in matching funds. I was able to buy a vehicle in June of 2024.

I have new freedom and independence having my own vehicle. My new car is larger and works better for our family. I am able to get my daughter to and from appointments and school, we can travel together for family outings, and I can travel for specialized medical services that are not available in Aroostook County.

Starting my own business also helped me to gain independence and balance. My income is lower, but my schedule is more flexible so I can take my daughter to school, be with her after school (saving on childcare), and travel for appointments.

My biggest challenge along the way was being able to save. It would have taken me several years to be able to buy a vehicle without an FDA account and I don’t know how I would have waited that long.

Part of the FDA program was taking the NVME My Money Works class. My budgeting and savings skills are quite good so I was surprised by how much I was able to learn in the class about saving, improving my credit, and how and why to have discussions with my family about saving. I now involve my daughter in our budgeting discussions. We share information about family expenses, saving, and financial goals and review our monthly spending plan.

The FDA program was not only set up to help people, but the staff are committed and really do want to help. I felt respected by everyone along the way.