Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center Expands Services to Weakley County

The Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center (GFEC), a program of the United Way of West Tennessee, will open a new office in Weakley County on Monday, March 31, 2025, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10am at the Northwest Tennessee Development District office (124 Weldon Drive, Martin, TN 38237). Supported by the Weakley County government, this expansion will provide further access to free in-person, one-on-one financial counseling services to residents within this area.

The new location represents a significant expansion of GJFEC's mission to promote financial stability throughout West Tennessee. Through this partnership with the Weakley County government, the center will offer comprehensive financial counseling services at no cost to residents, including debt management assistance, credit improvement strategies, budgeting guidance, and savings programs.

"We're thrilled to bring our proven financial empowerment services to Weakley County," said Jordan Howerton, Regional Director of the Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center. "As a program of the United Way of West Tennessee, we're committed to removing barriers to financial stability for all West Tennesseans, and this expansion allows us to reach even more community members who can benefit from our services."

The expansion comes at a critical time when many families are navigating economic challenges. By eliminating fees for all services, the GJFEC ensures that professional financial guidance is accessible to everyone in the community, regardless of their current financial situation.

"As a proud resident of Weakley County, I am deeply aware of the positive impact free financial counseling can have within our community," said Brandi Long, Financial Counselor for the Weakley County office. "Growing up in a rural area with little financial education in my early years, I experienced firsthand the challenges of managing income while tackling debt and striving for financial stability. I'm eager to share my skills and knowledge to help improve the overall financial well-being of individuals and families throughout our community."

Community members, local officials, and media representatives are invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the facility, meet with financial counselors, and learn more about scheduling free counseling sessions.

For more information, contact jhowerton@unitedway.tn.org.

About Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center

The Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) offers no-cost, financial counseling to all West Tennessee residents. It is jointly managed by the United Way of West Tennessee and the City of Jackson, with support from the Cities for Financial Empowerment. It has offices in Jackson, Brownsville, and Martin. 

About United Way of West Tennessee

Established in 1941, United Way of West Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. It serves 15 counties in West Tennessee with a focus on health, youth opportunity, financial stability, and community resiliency. Learn more at uwwt.org.