Single mom Frankie Hickman biggest concern is providing a safe environment for her children. 

“I have two children living at home. One is 9 and the other one is 18.  I felt it would be best to improve the quality of living for my children.”

The 1984 high school graduate and mother of two set out to realize her goal with the help of CADC family development specialist Pearl Livingston.  Frankie started an IDA account.

“My goal was home improvement.  I hoped to see the benefit of achieving my goal in my children.”

12 months later, Frankie realized her dream. With the $2,000 she saved and earned in the IDA program, Frankie was able to complete a much needed home improvement project.  Frankie, an educator and student in the masters of counseling program, said she is fortunate to find the CADC IDA program.

“The economic literacy program, the peer group meetings and everything helped me build a strong foundation for saving. CADC helped me with setting my goals and reaching them. I thank God for Pearl and the IDA program and the opportunity to improve the quality of life of my home and my children.”

IDA’s are matched savings accounts. For eligible participants, IDA’s can provide money to open or expand a small business, help pay for college expenses, purchase a home, or make home repairs. Persons who qualify can receive up to $2,000 per individual or $4,000 per family.

To be eligible, the individual or family must meet income guidelines, which for this program is 185% of the federal poverty level. Based on these guidelines, a one-person household must make less than $1,603 per month to qualify for this program. For each additional family member, add $555 to the monthly income to determine eligibility. Other guidelines may apply.

CADC is a private nonprofit community action agency that was formed in 1965 to fight and win the “War on Poverty.” The mission of CADC is to improve the quality of life and build strong communities in Arkansas. For more information, please contact Teresa Harrison at 870-234-6444.