Building More Than a Kitchen
For Nereyda, home has always been about creating a better future for her two school-aged children.
Nereyda enrolled in LifeWise StL’s Economic Wellness program, with a dream of remodeling her kitchen. Years of wear had left cabinets and drawers broken, making daily routines more difficult. She also hoped to install a vent hood to improve ventilation while cooking and increase her home’s resale value.
Like many families, Nereyda had a clear goal but needed the financial tools and support to make it a reality.
Over the course of the program, Nereyda completed eight financial education classes, participated in five one-on-one financial coaching sessions with her financial coach Ian Andres Amado, and attended Financial Support Group gatherings. She explored practical money management strategies and the deeper connection between her financial decisions and the legacy she hopes to leave for her children.
By committing to a consistent savings plan, Nereyda saved $1,000 of her own money and earned a $3,000 matched savings award from LifeWise. Together, those funds made her kitchen renovation possible.
Her remodeled kitchen is a visible milestone of her incredible transformation within.
“I’m so happy,” Nereyda said. “Thanks to the program, I remodeled my kitchen. Thanks to the program, I learned to be disciplined and save enough to get to work. I can only say, thank you, LifeWise!”
Throughout her journey, Nereyda developed more discipline in her savings habits and greater confidence in her ability to reach long-term financial goals. Her financial coach Ian witnessed that growth firsthand.
“It was clear from the beginning that she was committed to the program, not just for the matched savings, but for her own personal growth,” Ian said. “Her engagement with other participants, particularly other parents with similar hopes of building something meaningful for their children, was a delight to witness and an incredible contribution to Team LifeWise.”
It is amazing what becomes possible when families have access to financial education, personalized coaching, and the opportunity to build assets. Nereyda’s remodeled kitchen serves as a reminder of her determination and the lasting impact of investing in a family’s future.








