Bridge to Benefits
Asset Development
The Montana Homeownership Network dba NeighborWorks Montana (406) 761-5861 or 1 (866) 587-2244 The Montana Homeownership Network provides housing education and assistance and a variety of asset development programs. From affordable loan to Individual Development Account (IDA) matched savings programs, the Montana Homeownership Network has a variety of programs to assist those interested in homewonership throughout the state. Visit the website to learn about programs and income requirements..

Montana Legal Services Association (406) 442-9830 or 1 (800) 666-6899 The Montana Legal Services Association is a federally and privately funded program that provides free legal assistance in civil cases to low-income people. The Montana Legal Services Association runs a Building Security through Assets and Financial Education (BSAFE) Program.  BSAFE is an Individual Development Account (IDA) Program that helps low-income domestic violence survivors save money to buy a home, go to school, or start a small business.  This program matches savings of individuals to help them develop assets.  Click here to go to the BSAFE Program Website supported by the Montana Legal Services Association. 

Montana Credit Unions Network (406) 442-9081 Montana Credit Union Network exists to promote and enhance a thriving credit union community.

Montana Credit Union Network also runs a matched savings account, also known as an Individual Development Account (IDA).  These accounts help families and individuals of modest means establish a pattern of regular saving and, ultimately, reach a specific financial goal.  Click here to go to the IDA information site supported by Montana Credit Union Network.

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, which seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world.  Habitat provides affordable houses for low-income households.  There are currently 12 local Habitat affiliates in Montana.  Click here to find your local Habitat affiliate.

The Northern Plains Initiative (406) 761-8721 Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Montana was founded in 1968 to provide for the credit needs of residents across Montana and Wyoming. Now known as Rural Dynamics, the organization provides programs and establishes partnerships to help youth, individuals, and families achieve economic independence. Their vision is to develop and maintain a new generation of financially educated and responsible consumers. They are a private, nonprofit corporation, dedicated to providing confidential and professional counseling in aiding and rehabilitating financially distressed families, and individuals regardless of race, creed, color, sex, social position, or financial status, and in fostering community. They provide consumer education on money management and the intelligent use of credit.

Family Economic Security Program

The Family Economic Security Program is a federally funded program designed to help Montana families build assets that will enable them to be financially secure. These assets include buying a home, furthering education or starting a new business. The program is available in all Montana counties with varying degrees of service.  Most programs incorporate IDA's (Individual Development Accounts) as part of the services provided.  Click here for an application for the Family Economic Security Program in Cascade or Lewis and Clark Counties, or call 406-454-5722 for more information.