Pictured left to right: Evelyn Munro, Lynette Beer, Sarah Matafeo-Ross and Sandie Cooper (front) outside their office with the new signage and flag
After 30 years of serving their community, Te Aroha Family Budgeting Services Inc has a logo at last.
“I saw other services with logos, and it really does help to identify you, make you noticeable and recognisable… and we didn’t have one,” says manager and financial mentor Sarah Matafeo-Ross.
“After all these years, I thought it was about time that we had our own logo, and also updated signage.”
Sarah says COVID-19 affected many people, and some had never thought about approaching the service before. Income earners who had reduced hours or had lost their jobs started to make enquiries.
“But we know there are more people out there and we want them to know about us so that we can help them. Being visible is so important in our industry – if people don’t know you exist they can’t come to you for help.”
The service has seen some referrals from MoneyTalks, but there are still people who have no idea where to go for advice and support.
Sarah was successful in her funding application for this mahi which has meant they could develop a logo, and update their signs, name badges and forms. She says this has made her service look much more professional.
Currently, a website is being developed which will incorporate many other services in the district. Paeroa, Waihi, Whangamata and Coromandel are among 10 services that will benefit from the website, making them more visible and easier to contact via the online presence.
“We are in an age where technology directs people to places of assistance – we need to be part of this. We are very excited about the website and look forward to the launch in a few weeks,” says Sarah.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their finances, you can get in touch with Te Aroha Family Budgeting Service on 07 884 7490 or our MoneyTalks helpline team on 0800 345 123 for support.