City of Jackson Launches “Debt Defeater Campaign” to Drive Local Economic Mobility and Debt Relief
Jackson, Tenn. – The City of Jackson Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) has announced the Jackson Debt Defeater Campaign, a 60-day public-private initiative taking place throughout September and October 2026. Designed to assist residents in confronting, managing, and reducing destabilizing debt, the campaign connects community members with free, professional counseling through the Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center (FEC).
An Equitable Milestone Approach
Unlike traditional financial programs that only reward individuals who become completely debt-free, the Debt Defeater Campaign uses an equitable, milestone-based framework to celebrate measurable progress at every stage of the financial journey:
Get in the Door
- Action Required: Complete a first 1-on-1 counseling session with an FEC counselor in September
- Incentive Unlocked: Exclusive Campaign T-shirt and swag
Make the Plan
- Action Required: Pull a credit report, verify accounts, and map out a custom debt framework
- Incentive Unlocked: Direct referral pathway to trusted local financial institution partners
Hit the Milestone
- Action Required: Achieve a 10% target debt reduction or resolve a collection account
- Incentive Unlocked: Up to $100 emergency savings match, gift cards, and grand-prize entries
Strengthening the Local Economy
High debt service ratios and predatory interest rates drain millions from the local economy each year. By helping residents eliminate late fees, reduce high-interest debt, and transition away from alternative financial services like payday lenders, every dollar saved is directly reintroduced into Jackson’s small businesses, housing market, and local retail ecosystem.
Leadership Perspectives
“Economic mobility begins at the household level, and the Debt Defeater Campaign gives our residents the exact tools and support needed to achieve lasting financial health.” said Mayor Scott Conger. “Every dollar our families save on high interest and penalties stays right here in Jackson, strengthening our local businesses, neighborhoods, and community as a whole.”
“Our goal at the Office of Financial Empowerment is to meet people where they are and pave a clear path toward wealth-building,” said Tyler Carr, Director of the City of Jackson, TN Office of Financial Empowerment. “We are thrilled to partner with local banks and credit unions during this 60-day campaign to help Jackson residents defeat debt and build sustainable financial stability.”
How to Get Involved
Jackson residents interested in beginning their debt-reduction journey, as well as financial institutions seeking sponsorship opportunities, are encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Empowerment at 731-616-4201, [email protected]