JFLA Joins Other Jewish Free Loan Agencies to Provide $3.4M Loan for Humanitarian Needs in Israel

The International Association of Jewish Free Loans, along with 17 of its member agencies throughout the U.S., are joining together to provide over $3.4 million in an interest-free loan for emergency financial assistance to Israeli individuals and families.

The war against Hamas has thrown Israel’s economy into turmoil. The country is in a state of a emergency following the brutal October 7, 2023 attacks on innocent civilians in Israel. More than 360,000 reservists have been called to active duty, away from their jobs and families. Small business owners across the country, especially in the South near Gaza, are unable to conduct business as usual. Thousands have lost their homes, loved ones, and/or livelihoods.

Ogen, a nonprofit social lending enterprise in Israel, has launched its Swords of Iron Emergency Relief Fund in response. Ogen will provide interest-free loans to assist tens of thousands of Israelis who have been displaced from their homes or who are facing other economic challenges caused by the war. Loans will support those who:

• Lost their possessions or their homes in the terrorist attacks

• Lost their sources of income due to the attacks or the subsequent impacts of war

• Are living in conflict zones

"Our daily work is helping those who need emergency loans. Now more than ever, we are compelled to stand with Israel. This funding will be used to make emergency loans to help Israelis who are facing extraordinary challenges and will need financial support to regain their footing,” said Rachel Grose, Executive Director of JFLA.

When Ogen launched this important effort to assist thousands of Israeli citizens experiencing hardship following the October 7th attacks, IAJFL and its members were eager to stand in solidarity with their sister agency in Israel. The funds IAJFL agencies are lending to Ogen will be used to provide individuals and families with interest-free emergency relief loans of up to 60,000 shekels (approximately $15,500). Ogen will repay IAJFL and the participating agencies within 5 ½ years.