By JR Robinson

The $8 Million Milestone

When we talk about the economic struggles in our community, it is easy to get bogged down by the negative headlines. But today, we need to stop and celebrate a massive, life-changing victory for the people of Shelby County.

As of February 2026, clients of the Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center (GMFEC) have officially paid off over $8,000,000 in non-mortgage debt.

Let that number sink in. That is eight million dollars of credit card debt, medical bills, and predatory loans lifted off the shoulders of hardworking Memphians. Even more incredibly, this milestone comes just six months after the center celebrated crossing the $7.1 million mark. That means nearly a million dollars of debt was eradicated in just half a year.

This isn't just a win on a spreadsheet; this is about giving families their futures back. And it is all thanks to a powerhouse partnership between the Shelby County Trustee’s Office and the boots-on-the-ground heroes at RISE Memphis.

Flipping the Script: The Shelby County Trustee’s Office

When most people think of the county tax collector, they think of the government taking their money. But Shelby County Trustee Regina Morrison Newman has completely flipped the script.

By law, the Trustee is the banker for Shelby County Government, handling billions of dollars and coordinating banking for multiple county offices. But Newman has used her platform to fiercely advocate for the financial health of the everyday citizen. The Trustee’s Office sponsors the GMFEC (which is funded by grants and donations, including initial funds from the CFE Fund) as part of a massive portfolio of community outreach.

From the Tax Freeze and Tax Relief programs to the Adulting 101 Showcase and Bank On Memphis, the Trustee's office has proven they are just as committed to helping you build wealth as they are to balancing the county's books.

“Clients continue to amaze us with what they have been able to achieve through counseling with the GMFEC!" said Trustee Newman. "The Trustee’s office is thrilled at their continued dedication to improving their financial stability.”

The Heroes on the Ground: RISE Memphis

You cannot talk about financial liberation in this city without talking about RISE (Responsibility. Initiative. Solution. Empowerment.) Memphis.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, RISE Memphis has dedicated its existence to providing the financial literacy tools that families need to build assets and make better choices. They are the professional service providers powering the GMFEC, sitting down face-to-face with citizens to map out their escape routes from financial hardship.

Executive Director Malcom Rawls perfectly summarized the heart of this mission:

"Every dollar of debt eliminated, every credit score improved, every bank account opened represents a family with more breathing room and more hope. Crossing $8.1 million in non-mortgage debt reduction affirms what we've always believed: when you invest in people, they exceed every expectation. RISE Memphis is humbled to be part of this work, and we remain committed to making sure every Shelby County resident knows that financial freedom is within reach."

How the GMFEC Works (And How You Can Get Help)

Since opening its doors almost seven years ago, the GMFEC has served nearly 2,400 clients.

Here is the best part: The service is 100% FREE. The GMFEC offers one-on-one, professional financial counseling to all Shelby County residents, regardless of income. On average, clients receive at least two hours of counseling, but they are entitled to receive guidance for as long as they need it. Certified counselors offer personalized, confidential help to tackle:

• Aggressive Debt Reduction
• Credit Score Improvement
• Household Budgeting
• Increasing Personal Savings

If the pandemic, inflation, or just life in general has put you in a financial bind, you do not have to fight your way out alone. You have a team of dedicated professionals waiting to help you chart a path to financial freedom.

Ready to take control of your financial future?

• Schedule an Appointment: Visit fecpublic.org/appointment-greatermemphis
• Call: (901) 390-4200
• Learn More: Visit www.gmfec.org or follow them on Facebook at Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center.