‘It’s never too late’: FLTA nonprofit hosts free financial liberation event at Bakersfield Chase Bank

August 22, 2026 - 06:11

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - A steady stream of residents walked through the doors of the Chase Bank branch in downtown Bakersfield on Friday afternoon, not to deposit checks or open accounts, but to take part in a free financial education workshop. The event, organized by the nonprofit group FLTA, was designed to break down the barriers that often keep people from taking control of their money.

The workshop covered practical topics like creating a realistic monthly budget, setting up automatic savings, and understanding credit scores. Volunteers from the nonprofit sat down with attendees one-on-one, answering questions and helping them map out small, achievable steps. For many in the room, the most powerful message was simple: it is never too late to start.

Organizers stressed that financial struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of. They wanted to create a welcoming space where people could learn without judgment. One attendee, a single mother of two, said she came in feeling overwhelmed by debt but left with a clear plan to tackle it a little at a time.

The event was free and open to everyone, regardless of income or banking history. FLTA leaders say they plan to hold similar sessions in other neighborhoods in the coming months, hoping to reach more people who want to build stability but do not know where to begin. The atmosphere was upbeat, with several participants staying long after the formal presentations ended to ask follow-up questions and share their own experiences.