The microcredit program began in October of 2005 when PTPL sent $1,820 to start the program in Uvira. This program had been a dream since the founding of PTPL and involved the interchange of ideas among those in Greensboro and Congo during the process of establishing guidelines for the program. Over $7500 has now been sent for the loan fund. It is our hope that we will be able to raise sufficient funds in 2017 to be able to send more this year.
The program is designed to provide loans for women to begin or grow small businesses. The goal of the program is to enable women to become self sufficient. An investment in women in developing countries is an investment in the children and their education, health and future. Amounts of the loans range from $50 to $200. Loans are given for three months. The local coordinators require that each recipient save $1 a week. These savings are often used for the education of their children and healthcare. The loan with interest is paid at the end of the three months. If a woman successfully repays her original loan, she is eligible to apply for another loan.