IDA Savings Program

IDA Savings Program, prepared by Civic Association ETP Slovakia, is focused on marginalized population with inappropriate living and housing conditions. The savers are saving their money for a certain amount of time, usually 1 or 2 years, for a certain set goal. Some of them save for roof reconstruction or house expansion, others save for new windows or bathroom. The goal of this program is to teach the participants to think forward and plan their future as well as to teach them to save money, despite their modest income.

The terms and conditions of the Savings Program are clear but strict. The clients have to open a savings account and monthly deposit a certain amount of money. During their saving period, the clients are neither allowed to make any cash withdrawal nor miss their monthly deposit. Those, who meet the requirements of the program, receive a bonus equal to the amount on their saving account. This way their financial resources are doubled. The clients can also participate in Micro-loan Program after they finished saving. This way they receive sufficient financial resources to increase their housing quality.

The financial resources for the Savings Program are provided by Open Society Institute.