When Meghan Castaneda connected with Freedom First’s Financial Empowerment Center in December 2020, she aimed to move from subsidized housing into her own home. As a single mother of two working full-time for the Roanoke Redevelopment Housing Authority (RRHA), Meghan knew she needed persistence, guidance, and support.
Over 16 sessions, Meghan worked with her financial counselor to build confidence in money management, strengthen her credit, and prepare for homeownership. What started as budgeting basics became a path toward long-term financial stability.
In 2024, Meghan achieved her dream, purchasing her first home with her counselor by her side. This milestone was possible due to collaborative community partners. Freedom First Credit Union (FFCU) provided the first mortgage. The City of Roanoke contributed down payment assistance. RRHA, recognizing Meghan’s dedication, bought the property and sold it to her at a discounted price for affordability. Meghan also qualified for Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta funds through FFCU, reducing the principal and covering closing costs.
Meghan’s story highlights the vitality of community financial institutions. They offer more than just loans and financial products; they provide education, coaching, and tools for lasting financial health. By combining resources, relationships, and personalized guidance, they help families move from surviving to thriving.
For Meghan, this holistic support meant learning confident money management, building stability for her children, and achieving independence. Today, as a proud homeowner and community example, Meghan demonstrates how financial education and accessible products from community institutions open doors to opportunity and long-term security.
