The consequences of the Great Recession and the extended period of slow economic growth which followed, encouraged Kentuckians to become more aware of their financial situation. Kentucky consistently lags behind other areas of the United States in key household economic indicators, including: personal income, population living below the poverty line, unemployment, and revolving debt. It is important to acknowledge the impact of current economic conditions on family financial management by teaching real skills for everyday life. 

Carlisle and Hickman County Extension Family and Consumer Sciences program partnered with both Family Resource Youth Service Centers and Local Food Bank / Family Assistance Programs to offer Real Skills for Everyday Life.  68 participants seeking holiday assistance chose to participate in classes to increase family financial literacy. Real Skills for Everyday Life teaches budgeting, goal setting, and ways to reduce expenses. 96% of participants reported improved knowledge of their own expenses; how to cut spending; and save for emergencies. All participants practiced creating a budget and setting goals for their expenditures for the next three months. 100% of participants felt they would use what they learned and made a commitment to further review spending plan and take action. Many participants stated that after the class they felt more in control of their resources and how to manage finances.