Individual Development Accounts
St. Vincent de Paul participates in the Valley Individual Development Account (VIDA) Program, a statewide coalition that helps rural households achieve major life and financial goals through matched savings, training, and support. Since 2002, St. Vincent de Paul's program has had 26 graduates; ten people graduated in 2009.
In the Matched Savings Program, VIDA provides an opportunity for low to moderate income households to build assets. Participants save for 6 to 36 months for one of the following assets:
- Post-secondary education,
- Home ownership,
- Home repair and rehab, or
- Specialized training, adaptive equipment, or technology.
During the savings period (6 to 36 months), the IDA Specialist coaches the participants, addressing barriers, strengthening money handling skills, and helping them prepare for achieving their goals.
“The IDA program has given me the miracle of believing in myself again and for that I say thank you.” - Aleta, VIDA participant

