Saving the World a Few Dollars at a Time

Saving the World a Few Dollars at a Time September 18, 2008

One of the interesting projects at First U that has caught my imagination is the First Unitarian Village Task Force. It is a program inspired by the microcredit movement.

In 2007 a band of congregants raised five thousand dollars and created a bank in Guatemala through the Foundation for International Community Assistance. Soon after they raised enough money to fund a second bank, also in Guatemala.

This summer the Task Force started a third bank, this time in Haiti.

Now, I’m fully aware that there is plenty to do in our own backyard. And we need to attend to such.

And, I’m aware there is a profound need to address systemic issues, large philosophical questions about how we as human societies should organize ourselves for our mutual betterment and fulfillment in life.

And, my goodness, these microbanks are amazing!

The latest bank started through First U, the Fanm k’ap Brase Village Bank, loaned Fabiola Etienne two hundred, thirty one dollars to start a dry food business. She is twenty years old, due lack of money her education ended soon after learning to read and write. She had been in business for five years with no capital and was barely getting by. This loan has kicked her up a level. Maybe two or three…

Jacqueline Lalanne borrowed one hundred, forty four dollars in order to expand her clothing business. Josette Paul received a loan of one hundred fifteen dollars to enlarge her charcoal business.

Real people. Real solutions.

Amazing work…


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