With Canadians carrying more consumer debt than ever before, knowing how to navigate the financial system and look after your money has never been more important.
That’s why the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Katzie Community Literacy Committee has decided to focus their efforts on improving financial literacy this week as part of Family Literacy Week.
According to the International Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey, literacy is defined as, “the ability to understand and employ printed information in daily activities, at home, at work, and in the community – to achieve one’s goals, and to develop one’s knowledge and potential.”
By this definition, literacy is more than just being able to read and write, it also includes social, emotional and interpersonal communication, the use of technology, and the arts, says literacy outreach coordinator Angie McLeod.
The local literacy organization has partnered with Vancity Credit Union to host a pair of events at the CEED Centre (11739 223rd Street, Maple Ridge) to help people better manage their money and avoid going into debt unnecessarily.
This Thursday, Jan. 19, the group is holding a workshop on how to build and keep a monthly budget.
The workshop will provide valuable information on budgeting, hands on experience with budgeting tools, and practice managing cash flow to avoid feeling the pinch at the end of the month.
On Saturday, Jan. 21, the groups hosts “Credit Cards: Your Enemy? Or Your Friend?” at 2 p.m.
The workshop will cover the essentials on how to use your credit card effectively while reaping the maximum benefits from them.
The credit card is perhaps the most convenient payment method today and with no shortage of credit cards choices being offered by banks, retailers and card companies. This workshop will help you decide which one is right for your needs.
Both workshops are free to attend, but registration is required. To register call Angie at 604-476-2447 or e-mail: coordinator@communityliteracy.ca.
