Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring April 2026 as National Financial Literacy Month
end
Department
Housing and Community Development
Recommendation
Staff recommend that the Mayor and Council read and approve the proclamation declaring April as National Financial Literacy Month in the City of Rockville.
Discussion
National Financial Literacy Month is observed each April to raise awareness of the importance of financial education so that families can make informed financial decisions and improve financial stability. Financial wellness includes topics such as budgeting, saving, repairing credit, and reducing debt, as well as understanding banking services, avoiding predatory lending practices, and planning for long-term goals such as retirement or education. By building these skills, individuals are better equipped to navigate financial challenges, respond to unexpected expenses, and take advantage of opportunities to grow their assets over time.
Declaring April as National Financial Literacy Month in the City of Rockville shows support for the work of the Bank On Rockville Coalition. In the past year, the Department of Housing and Community Development has re-launched Bank On Rockville, bringing together partners at financial institutions, local non-profits, and city staff to coordinate activities that promote financial empowerment. The partnerships and program-building happening through the Bank On Rockville Coalition raises awareness of the importance of financial empowerment and education, while also helping to reduce barriers that prevent residents from fully participating in the financial system.
This work connects to the department’s overall goal of upward economic mobility for Rockville residents. A strong foundation of financial education allows residents to remain housing stable and build towards goals for education, homeownership, and more, that will allow them and their families to fully flourish. In addition, improved financial capability can help residents weather economic uncertainty, avoid displacement, and build generational wealth. By integrating financial literacy into broader housing and community development efforts, the City of Rockville is supporting not only immediate financial stability, but also long-term prosperity and resilience for individuals, families, and the community as a whole.
Mayor and Council History
This is the first time the Mayor and Council have made a proclamation for National Financial Literacy Month.