You deserve a safe home and a clear path to build wealth. If housing costs are stretching your paycheck, there are real resources in our area that can help right now. Three Rivers Community Action serves four SE Minnesota counties with practical tools for renters and future homeowners. This guide explains what they do, how to connect, and how First Alliance Credit Union’s free calculators can support your next step.
Three Rivers Community Action is part of a statewide network that started in the 1960s to fight poverty by listening to people and building programs around their needs. They focus on one simple idea. Listen first. Then design help that truly fits a family’s situation. In SE Minnesota, Three Rivers serves Wabasha, Goodhue, Rice, and Olmsted counties.
Their team looks at the full housing journey. Some people need short term help to stay housed. Others are ready to move from renting to owning. Three Rivers meets you where you are and walks with you toward stability and self sufficiency.
If rent is late or a surprise bill hit, you do not have to face it alone. Three Rivers offers support that can keep a roof over your head while you get back on track. They also have friendly staff who will listen to your situation, sort out what you qualify for, and connect you to the right program.
After you reach out, an advocate can review your income, bills, and current lease. They may be able to help with a one time payment or a short term subsidy. If you already have an eviction notice, ask about prevention options. Keeping you housed is the first goal, because it protects your family and your credit.
Here are common ways they help renters when money is tight:
Rental assistance or short subsidies: This can fill a temporary gap while you recover from a job change or a medical expense.
Eviction prevention: If you received a notice, ask about steps that may stop the process before it reaches court.
Utility help: Support with heat or lights can free up cash for rent and reduce stress on your budget.
Homeownership can be a powerful way to build wealth over time. Three Rivers created Achieve Homeownership for people who are ready to move from renting to buying a home. Many participants are first time buyers or first generation buyers whose families have not owned homes before. The program focuses on education, one on one advising, and connecting you to resources that make buying possible.
Education comes first. Classes explain the basics in plain language, like what a mortgage is, how an interest rate works, and why credit matters. Lenders from the community, including First Alliance Credit Union, join these sessions to answer questions and explain the mortgage approval process. Next, you can meet one on one with a housing advisor who looks at your credit report, your budget, and your timeline.
Down payment assistance is also part of the picture. Three Rivers offers multiple programs, including a savings match that can boost what you set aside. They also administer first generation down payment help for those who qualify. This support can lower your loan amount, reduce your monthly payment, and help you build equity faster.
Courtney shares their role in building equity and generational wealth through housing
Alyssa rents a two bedroom in Olmsted County. After her hours were cut and a car repair hit, her budget slipped. She called Three Rivers and received short term rental help so she could stay housed. An advocate invited her to a homebuyer class. She met one on one with a housing advisor, used the First Alliance Budget Calculator to trim spending, and set up two savings buckets. She saved for her down payment over a few years while building a separate emergency fund so surprises would not knock her off track. When her down payment fund grew enough, she moved it into a First Alliance Money Market Account to earn dividends while she kept saving. With advising and a savings match, her fund reached the goal. She got pre approved at First Alliance Credit Union, found a starter home in her price range, and moved in with a budget she can sustain.
Buying a home feels big, but you can break it into simple steps. Start by learning the basics, then get your numbers in place, and finally shop with confidence. When you follow a clear plan, you make fewer mistakes and avoid extra fees.
Before you begin, gather your info and build a simple timeline. Choose a price range that fits your life, not just what looks nice online. Ask questions often, because the words lenders use can be confusing at first.
Learn the basics. What is a mortgage. How much is a down payment. What is PMI on a mortgage and when can it drop off.
Check affordability. Use First Alliance Credit Union’s How Much House Can I Afford Calculator to see a comfortable price range based on income and monthly bills.
Get pre approved. This shows sellers you are serious and helps you focus on homes that fit your budget.
Know the documents needed for a mortgage application. Recent pay stubs, W 2s, bank statements, and a photo ID are common items.
Plan for mortgage closing costs. These are fees for the loan and title work. Your advisor can explain typical items so there are no surprises.
Many new owners say the same thing. The learning does not stop at closing. Three Rivers heard this and added post purchase advising. You can ask questions about setting a home budget, basic maintenance, and how to save for repairs. In Olmsted County, they also connect new owners with peer mentors who share what worked for them.
Staying successful as a homeowner is about steady habits. Pay your mortgage on time, keep a small emergency fund, and tackle low cost maintenance early before it grows. If money gets tight, talk to your lender and reach back to your advisor. Asking for help early can protect your home and your credit.
You can call their main line and the staff will route you to the right person for your county. You can also visit their website at threeriverscap.org to find phone numbers and program details. If you are not sure what you need, ask for an advocate. They will listen, look at your situation, and point you to the best options.
First Alliance Credit Union is here to help with your side of the plan. Use our calculators to set a budget, test home prices, and prepare for pre approval. If you want to talk through your numbers, we are happy to answer questions and guide you to helpful community resources.