CINCINNATI — Having a low credit score can be a challenge when looking to buy things like a home or a car. But thanks to a mobile bus service, families in need can help build their credit and become more financially literate. 

What You Need To Know

  • Fifth Third Bank eBus recently visited to Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati

  • The eBus is a mobile bus equipped with desktop computer stations for use by residents in neighborhoods historically underserved

  • Residents meet with a professional banker who will review their credit score and credit report and then provide suggestions

  • The eBus helped nearly half a million people since 2004

For months now, Angela Ramsey has been looking forward to buying her first home. She stopped by the Fifth Third EBus for some tips and advice. 

“It’ll be mine,” said Ramsey. “I don’t have to move. I don’t have to be late on rent and somebody throwing me out. I will be my own homeowner.”

Once on the bus, Ramsey met with a personal banker from Fifth Third Bank. They checked her credit score and looked at her credit report. Through this process, she learned she needed to improve her credit before purchasing a home. 

“I already know my credit cards are a little high, so he wanted to re-remind me to keep them under 30%,” she said. “So, I’m going to get them back down to 30%, and I’ll be ready to rock and roll for my mortgage.”

The eBus is made possible through a collaboration between Fifth Third Bank, the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio and the Avondale Development Corporation. 

Fifth Third Senior Vice President of Community Economic Development Marketing Manager Royce Sutton said this service is important in communities like Avondale, where the percentage of homebuyers is 23%, which is nearly half of Cincinnati’s homebuyer rate.

“The opportunity for us to bring information to really connect with families to talk about those things that will create legacies, will create opportunities to grow wealth, but more importantly, for people to begin that journey,” said Sutton. 

In addition to the eBus, residents like Ramsey explored other booths with Jobs and Family Services and the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley. Overall, Ramsey said this experience helped get her back on track financially. 

“It’s been very beneficial for me, I believe,” said Ramsey. “That’s just how I feel because things that I didn’t know they’re opening up that opportunity for me to know.”