Program Spotlight: Building Financial Stability

For many veterans, the transition to civilian life is already challenging. For those who are low-income, homeless, or just emerging from homelessness, the obstacles are even greater. Finding stable housing, securing employment, and managing everyday expenses can feel overwhelming without the right tools and support.

Take it from U.S. Navy veteran, Todd Johnson. After years of homelessness and struggle with substance use, he got connected to Swords to Plowshares in 2013. Living in our housing programs helped him see a path to independence and stability: namely, to live in his own home and buy a car - but he had no idea of where to begin.

"For so long I felt removed from everyday life and routine. I didn't know how I could start from where I was - formerly homeless, disabled - but the financial empowerment team at Swords helped me see what was possible."

Swords to Plowshares' Financial Empowerment Program plays a critical role in helping veterans achieve long-term stability and independence. Learn more about the work:

Why Financial Empowerment Matters

Financial instability often goes hand-in-hand with housing insecurity and unemployment. A veteran may be able to secure a place to live, but without the skills to manage rent, budget income, or save for emergencies, they remain vulnerable to slipping back into instability.

Our Financial Empowerment Program equips veterans like Todd with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their finances. It’s about building confidence, setting goals, and creating a foundation for a secure future.

Practical Tools and One-on-One Support

Through the program, veterans receive personalized assistance with:

• Budgeting and money management – Learning how to track expenses, pay bills on time, and stretch limited income.
• Understanding rent and housing costs – Navigating rental agreements, avoiding eviction pitfalls, and planning for long-term housing stability.
• Setting financial goals – Whether it's saving for a car, paying off debt, or preparing for a first apartment, veterans get support in reaching milestones that improve quality of life.
• Representative-Payee Services - This unique service assists veterans who struggle to or are still learning to manage their money well. Swords staff manage enrolled veterans' income payments (i.e. disability, social security, p) to ensure theybills on time.

Learning Through Workshops and Guest Speakers

In addition to one-on-one support, veterans have the opportunity to join workshops that make financial literacy accessible and engaging. Guest speakers share practical advice on topics such as:

• How to open and maintain a bank account
• Building (or repairing) credit
• Understanding income and benefits
• Basics of saving and investing for the future

These sessions provide critical information and foster a community where veterans learn and grow together.

A Path Toward Independence

Financial empowerment is a key part of breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. By helping veterans build the skills to manage money, pay rent, and save for the future, we're opening the door to stability and independence. In 2020, Todd was able to move out of Swords' permanent supportive housing and into his own townhome in Park Merced. A couple years later, he bought his dream car!

Todd reflects, "I feel better than I ever thought I could. The stability is life-affirming. I have to thank the team who gives me this backbone. It allows me to live life the way I imagined I could."

The impact is clear: when a veteran can confidently manage their income and expenses, they are better positioned to thrive in housing, employment, and community life.

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