Steps 2 Success Program Fights Growing Trend to Take BNPL Loans for Groceries
- Leighanne Stose
- May 1, 2025
- 2 min read
There is no denying that the changing economic environment over the past 5 years has been a strain on our minds and wallets. The cost of rent, utilities, and even groceries has increased steadily, but paychecks have largely stayed the same. It’s no wonder that many have started using Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services just to get by.
Last Friday, LendingTree shared results of their recent survey, which revealed a troubling trend: more people are turning to BNPL loans just to put food on the table. In fact, according to a CNBC report on the study, one in four BNPL users say they've used the service to buy groceries.
"These aren't just statistics, they are real people," Bill Brim, President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services, stated. "The cost of living has been a steadily growing concern in our community - a concern we see daily at LSS - pushing people into unsustainable financial habits just to meet basic needs."
"Many were already struggling to make ends meet and living from paycheck to paycheck before these changes started," said Michelle Hughes, Director of the Steps 2 Success program. “If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone—and taking that first step to ask for help can feel big. But we’re here to meet you where you are, with compassion and no judgment."
Participants of the S2S program receive free comprehensive and individualized support that includes one-on-one financial coaching, career support, and job training; access to income-boosting benefits; and workshops on budgeting, credit building, and savings. Last year, S2S clients raised their credit scores by 56 points and their monthly net incomes by $1,147 per month, on average.
"This study is a wake-up call, but we want people to know there is hope," said Hughes. "Financial health is possible—with the right support and hard work." Wherever a person is in their financial journey—trying to find a better-paying and more stable job, looking to buy a home, or getting out of debt—individualized coaching from S2S can help.
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