Philadelphia Federal Credit Union (PFCU) will launch a campaign during Financial Literacy Month to help erase the stigma often associated with talking about money in an effort to help people become more financially responsible. Throughout the month of April, the credit union is inviting Philadelphians to share their money confessions on social media with the hashtag #StopMoneyShaming for a chance to win a prize for their participation.
“As PFCU’s financial educator, it’s my responsibility to speak with people about their money concerns and create a plan for success, but more often than not people are ashamed to have the conversation in the first place,” said Erin Ellis, PFCU’s Accredited Financial Counselor. “This year, we wanted to start a widespread conversation in hopes that we can encourage people to face their financial realities, realize they aren’t alone in their concerns, and provide them with the information they need to set and accomplish their goals.”
As part of the campaign, PFCU invites Philadelphians ages 18 and older to enter the #StopMoneyShaming photo contest from April 1 through April 30 to encourage dialogue around financial preparedness. Participants must take a picture with their money confession and post their photo to at least one personal social media account (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) with the hashtag #StopMoneyShaming in the caption. A grand prize winner will be randomly selected on April 30 and receive a $250 PFCU Visa gift card and a complimentary financial planning session with Erin Ellis. Additional details on the contest are available at https://www.pfcu.com/stopmoneyshaming.
“Treating money like a taboo topic can make people anxious about asking for guidance and results in people feeling alone when they may need budgeting help or have questions about financial well-being,” continued Ellis. “We think it’s time to stop money shaming so that everyone can feel comfortable having these conversations and can learn how to establish and maintain healthy financial habits.”
While Financial Literacy Month serves as an annual reminder for Americans across the country, PFCU works year-round to encourage financial preparedness by providing resources on its website and seminars throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. PFCU encourages everyone to take time in April to learn more about how money is earned, managed, and saved. To learn more about PFCU’s mission, services and upcoming events, visit pfcu.com.
About Philadelphia Federal Credit Union
Founded in 1951, PFCU is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving Philadelphia and Columbia County, Pa. PFCU is among the top five credit unions in the Greater Philadelphia area, with 11 branch locations, more than $1 billion in assets, 115,000 members, and more than 400 Select Employee Groups (SEGs). PFCU returns its profits to members in the form of higher dividend rates, lower loan rates, better services, and investment in the community. For more information, visit www.pfcu.com and connect with PFCU on Facebook and Twitter.