Yesterday, Supplier Alliance for Microcredit partners convened in Los Angeles to meet microcredit clients, hosted by Whole Planet Foundation’s microfinance partner Grameen America. Branch Manager Mr. Rashidul and Field Credit Officer Jessica introduced us to Lily who runs a neighborhood perfume, clothing and jewelry shop.
Microcredit client Lily.
Lily shares her business space with her daughter who sells used books. Lily’s first loan was for $500 and now she is on her second loan of $1,000, which she used to purchase perfume and clothes for her shop. Lily appreciates the ability to run her own business and take care of herself along with her daughter. Lily is close to the other four members in her solidarity loan group, expressing that they each assist each other wherever possible, including helping make payments to keep everyone’s loan repayment on track so that they can take other, larger loans as their businesses grow.
Lily showing catalog to potential customer and with Field Officer Jessica.
Supplier Alliance for Microcredit partners on the ground included BlueAvocado, Hain Celestial, Seventh Generation and Stacy’s. When suppliers engage in person, they witness first-hand the impact of their generosity and then they commit to continue their donation for the next year! Hain Celestial and Seventh Generation have been donating $50,000 a year since 2007. Thank you!