Week 7 Action Steps

1. MAKE MICRO-LOANS TO BLACK ENTREPRENEURS

   Black entrepreneurs often have difficulty obtaining funding through traditional banks and lending institutions. One way to help with this issue is to make a micro-loan directly to a Black business owner. Micro-lending companies typically target people living at or below the poverty line and provide small loans for their businesses, along with training opportunities and support, to ensure success. As individuals, we can contribute as little as $25 for a loan and help a Black man or woman build financial stability. Kiva.org: For as little as $25 you can lend money via Kiva.org and choose the business you’d like to support. After setting up an account and loaning money, you’ll receive updates on repayment. Kiva.org reports a payback rate of over 90% on their loans. 

2. GRAMEEN AMERICA
   

   You can make a one-time or monthly donation to Grameen America, which provides micro-loans to US women in underserved communities. Grameen reports a payback rate of 98% across the company. 

3. HELP STOP PREDATORY PAYDAY LENDING

   Predatory payday lending makes racial inequalities in the economy even worse. These lenders disproportionately target people of color, trapping them in a cycle of debt and making it impossible for them to build wealth. Learn about efforts to stop payday lending in Indiana and what steps you can take.

4. VOLUNTEER WITH GLEANERS TO BRING FOOD TO HUNGRY HOOSIERS

   Every year thousands of Hoosier families have food to eat because of Gleaners’ gracious and compassionate volunteers. Because of their generously-given time and effort, Gleaners is able to collect and distribute more than 2 million pounds of food each month. They couldn’t do what they do for hungry Hoosiers without your help. Volunteer at Gleaners

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