HSBC Provides Grant to Fund Budget Counseling: Money Management International Provides...

HOUSTON -- At the end of 2006, HSBC - North America (HSBC), one of the top ten financial services companies in the world, awarded a $300,000 financial education grant to Money Management International (MMI), the nation's largest non-profit credit and debt counseling firm, and the parent company

"This grant provides vital training and educational resources to individuals as they move forward with their lives," said Loretta Abrams, Vice President of Consumer Affairs, HSBC North America. "As the Gulf Coast region continues to rebuild, HSBC is proud to support the work MMI is doing."

Through the grant, in 2006 MMI offered 4,538 free counseling sessions, and presented 152 free budget education classes to 5,041 individuals living in the Gulf Coast region.

"For most families in the Gulf Coast region, the healing process has already begun. As families continue putting their lives back in order, we know that piecing together their financial details will be an increasingly important task. Because we live and work in these communities, we want this information made available so consumers can make the best decisions for their families." said Cate Williams, Vice President of Financial Literacy for MMI.

About Money Management International

Money Management International (MMI) is a nonprofit, full-service credit-counseling agency, providing confidential financial guidance, financial education, counseling and debt management assistance to consumers since 1958. MMI helps consumers trim their expenses, develop a spending plan and repay debts. Counseling is available by appointment in branch offices and 24/7 by telephone and Internet. Services are available in English or Spanish. To learn more, call 800-762-2271 or visit www.moneymanagement.org.

About HSBC - North America

HSBC - North America comprises all of HSBC's U.S. and Canadian businesses, including the former Household International businesses. The company's businesses serve nearly 60 million customers in five key areas: personal financial services, consumer finance, commercial banking, private banking and corporate investment banking and markets. Financial products and services are offered under the HSBC, HFC and Beneficial brands. For more information, visit: www.hsbcusa.com.