January 2026 - High Point FCU

High Point FCU brings Bite of Reality to Olean High School

January 14^th, 2026 – Olean, NY. High Point Federal Credit Union staff shared their new Bite of Reality financial education program with Olean High School, with nearly 50 seniors participating. Bite of Reality is a modern, app-based simulation that gives students hands-on experience managing personal finances in real-world scenarios.

High Point FCU originally implemented the Mad City Money program in 2013, presenting it at Olean and Allegany high schools. Today, the Credit Union has transitioned to Bite of Reality, an updated version of the same concept delivered through an interactive mobile app. The program continues to provide students with a realistic look at adult financial responsibilities while leveraging technology to enhance engagement and accessibility.

Through Bite of Reality, students begin by selecting an assigned “identity,” which includes an occupation, salary, family status, student loan and credit card debt, and insurance expenses. Using the app, participants make financial decisions related to housing, transportation, childcare, food, and other necessities, all while working to stay within their assigned budget.

Students learn how to manage monthly expenses, understand credit card payments, handle unexpected financial challenges and windfalls, and evaluate how lifestyle choices impact their financial stability. While some students are able to save money by the end of the simulation, others must revisit decisions and make more affordable choices, mirroring real-life financial tradeoffs.

When asked about the main takeaways, students shared a greater appreciation for their parents’ spending decisions, a clearer understanding of the true cost of living, and the importance of managing and paying down debt. Experiencing these scenarios in a controlled, interactive environment helps students build practical financial knowledge they may not otherwise gain.

High Point FCU is excited to offer Bite of Reality to high schools throughout its expanded field of membership, which includes all of Allegany, Cattaraugus, McKean, and Potter counties. For more information or to schedule Bite of Reality at your school, email Marketing@highpointfcu.com or call (716) 372-6607.

A New Year, A Fresh Start: Financial Goals Made Simple

The start of a new year is more than just flipping the calendar, it’s a chance to reset, refocus, and move forward with confidence. At High Point FCU, we believe the new year is the perfect time to check in on your financial goals and make small changes that can lead to big wins over time.

Whether you’re planning for the year ahead or simply looking for better financial habits, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Reflect Before You Reset

Before setting new goals, take a moment to look back. What worked for you financially last year? What felt challenging? Reflection helps you build realistic goals instead of overwhelming resolutions.

Even small wins, like building a little savings or paying down one bill, are worth celebrating. Progress is progress.

Set Realistic, Meaningful Goals

Instead of broad resolutions like “save more” or “spend less,” try setting clear, achievable goals:

Build an emergency fund, even if it’s just a few dollars at a time
Pay down high-interest debt
Improve your credit score
Save for a vacation, education, or a major purchase

Breaking goals into smaller steps makes them easier to stick with, and easier to celebrate when you reach them.

Make Saving Automatic

One of the simplest ways to stay on track is to make saving automatic. Setting up recurring transfers to your savings account can help you stay consistent without thinking about it each month.

Start the Year With a Financial Checkup

The new year is a great time to review your budget, loans, and savings. Ask yourself:

Am I paying more interest than I need to?
Do my accounts still fit my needs?
Could I benefit from refinancing or consolidating?

Our team is always happy to help members review their finances and explore options that support their goals.

Let’s Make This Your Year

You don’t have to do it alone. Whether your goal is to save, borrow smarter, or simply feel more confident about your finances, High Point FCU is here to support you throughout the year.

Stop by a branch, explore our digital tools, or reach out to our team, we’d love to help you turn this fresh start into lasting financial confidence. Here’s to a new year full of opportunity, growth, and smart financial choices.