(Courtesy of Schoke JFS) During this difficult time of economic recovery from the loss of employment or income because of the pandemic, Schoke Jewish Family Service of Fairfield County continues to offer a Hebrew Free Loan program. The program is designed to offer community members the opportunity to receive interest-free loans to support financial needs that do not qualify for funding through our emergency assistance program.

Community members can receive funding to support immediate, concrete needs including: emergency home or car repairs, medical expenses, funeral costs, camp tuition, participation in a gap-year or short-term Jewish or Israel education program, or attending a vocational or technical program to advance their career.

As a Jewish social service agency, all our programs are inspired by our texts and traditions. As Exodus 22:24 teaches: “If you lend money to my people, even to the poor among you, do not act toward them as a creditor; you shall not charge them interest.” Hebrew Free Loan programs have existed in the United States for over a century to expand opportunity to those who cannot secure commercial credit.

To participate in the program, applicants will need to provide financial information, secure a guarantor, submit a statement of need, and commit to a repayment schedule. The length of repayment will be determined by the loan amount, with the assumption that most loans will be repaid within 36 months.

This initiative has been funded by the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien and the Federation of Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County.

For more information about the Hebrew Free Loan program, contact Leah Schechter at 203-921-4161 or by email at [email protected]. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.