Around August 2024, I was enrolled in a PTSD program at the Lyons VA in New Jersey and was at-risk of being homeless connecting with Soldier On.   During this time, I was discouraged, my credit was very low, and it made me think how I was missing out on opportunities and how I was not taking advantage of them such as an auto loan or affordable housing.

My Case Management team Cristina Figueroa-Davis and Joan Speranza were helpful in introducing me to Soldier On’s free financial counseling program created to assist Veterans understand the benefits of Credit education.  At first, I was hesitant talking to a financial coach about my personal finances and overall situation.  However, my financial coach, Jacob Merritt, was a true professional, making me feel at ease and to this day is a great person to work with.  From the beginning he set clear expectations, and most importantly realistic telling you the truth but with helpful options to reach a solution over time. 

During the last 6 months working with the program, Jacob would constantly be checking up on me monthly, pulling my credit report periodically to ensure I was hitting my goals.  He also taught me the Snowball method in approaching my debt, paying my smallest debts first.  His insight on what credit cards to work on the most, and how to deal with debt collectors.  In addition, I had numerous credit card limit increases due to my improved credit history, only utilizing it for emergencies. It has also helped my credit score increase by over 185 points since working with the program and continues to increase. 

In March 2025, I moved into my own apartment with my 13-year-old daughter and today we just had our furniture delivered to our place just before her birthday next month.  I have never been so happy, Jacob taught me great habits, I continually check on my credit score, it was a big factor in getting into this new place along with all the support from Soldier On.

My next goal is to become a homeowner and utilize my VA home loan benefits.  It’s never too late to start with a simple plan.  What I thought would take forever, took just a few months, especially with Soldier On’s staff and financial coaches, providing support with every step of your journey.