Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Wellshire Microfinance Meeting TOMORROW!

On Thursday, August 23 at 12:00 pm, bring a brown-bag lunch and meet in Room 208 to find out what Wellshire Microlending through Kiva is all about. All are welcome to attend and help us invest monies on hand from loan repayments and generous donations. We welcome everyone's input in selecting new borrowers. If you are unable to attend, please email Wes Smits with the names of people from Kiva who you feel would be worthy candidates. You can email your choices up through tonight.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

For what purposes do people want to borrow money?

Our team has made loans in about 30 different categories. Carpentry and construction supplies are number one with 13 loans each. Close behind are livestock and food sales with 11 loans each. Clothing sales and farming are also quite popular.

Do you see the pattern? Food, shelter, and clothing are the borrowers' most important needs. Their needs are just like ours, but certainly more critical. By applying for these loans, the borrowers are trying to do something to improve their economic situation and become self-sufficient. Our team wants to assist them.

Where does the money go?

We have made microloans in 42 countries. Countries that seem to find favor with our team members are Kenya (24 loans), Uganda and Peru (10 loans each), Nicaragua and Ecuador (6 loans each), Paraguay, Cambodia, and Colombia (5 loans each). Ten other countries received 3 loans each.

July 2012

In spite of the high temperatures in July, the Wellshire Microfinance team did not slow down. Our July totals include two new members and eighteen new loans worth $450. Since September 28, 2011, our team, which now includes 36 members, has made 154 microloans worth $4250 covering 42 countries. Thanks to all who participated!
We expect to grow even faster in August. Watch the bulletin for the time of our next meeting. All are welcome to attend and help us invest monies on hand from loan repayments and generous donations. We welcome everyone's input in selecting new borrowers. If you are unable to attend, please email the names of people from Kiva's website who you feel would be worthy candidates. You can email your choices the night before our next meeting. Send them to smitswd@gmail.com.