Tinisha's Story

The following is Tinisha's testimony for the Massachusetts Asset
Development Commission's public hearing on the policies,
programs and practices that can better assist low and moderate income
families to build an retain assets, such as housing, savings and
retirement funds. This was the first public hearing in what will be a
series of hearings on the financial stability of Massachusetts
Residents. Here' is Tinisha's story...

My name is Tinisha Jacobs and I am currently an intern participating in the Department's DTA Works Program. I have two children and receive state benefits (Food Stamps and Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children.) I have answered the Commission's questions below:

Are you able to provide for your family's current basic needs? Do you use governmetn aid programs? Do you want to use assistance programs but don't know which ones are available? Are you embarrassed to use assistence programs like food stamps even though you need them?

The benefits I receive from DTA help me get by. I look forward to receiving my first paycheck, which will also help. I think it would be beneficial to find out about more available resources. This would help me to become more self sufficient. At one time I was embarrased to use Food Stamps. I didn't want to use my EBT card in front of people because I didn't want anyone to think I was poor or just didn't have any money.

Do you want to get more education and job training? Is something holding you back?

I would like to get my GED and more job training to brighten my future and become successful. The only thing holding me back is child care in the evenings for my kids.

Have you been able to start saving money for the future? If not, what gets in your way?

No, I haven't, but I think if there were resources on how to save and manage money, families would be more responsible and learn how to better budget.

What kind of assistance would you need if you were to purchase a home or start your own business? How would you get enough money to get started? Do you know where to go to seek help?

I would first look to see who has the best resources on how to purchase a home. I would see if I qualify for a loan and then take it from there. I think if there was more information on mortgages and on how to purchase a home, people would have a better advantage.

What are your answers to the Asset Building Commission's questions? Do you know someone who may want to come to the next public hearing? We'll keep you updated on future hearings and testimony.