How TOLI clients are now bravely investing, adapting — and getting back to work
Even in normal times, being an entrepreneur means taking risks. These days though, it takes an extra dose of courage. As life inches back to normal — or adapts to a new normal — TOLI is beginning to grant new microloans again to clients who are ready. In communities where restrictions are now lifting, our local partners are helping clients bravely kickstart new businesses and rebuild existing ones. In fact, 27 new microloans have been granted in the past few weeks in Egypt and in Central Kenya.
Meet four courageous entrepreneurs in central Kenya, who are boldly investing in their dreams:
MAGDALENE // Cosmetics Shop. Magdalene is a brand new TOLI client, launching a cosmetics shop in her community. Her loan of $300 will allow her to stock her shop with the inventory and supplies needed to build her business.
LENA // Veterinary Services. Last fall we shared how Lena launched a veterinary services business with a $300 microloan. Since then, she's continued to build her business, even through the worst of the pandemic restrictions, and paid off her loan successfully. This month she received a secondary $300 loan to increase her inventory and earnings.
HUNTINGFORD // Banana Farmer. Huntingford just took his first TOLI microloan to purchase water storage tanks to help irrigate his banana crops. With reliable irrigation, he will now be able to increase crop yields and provide steady income for his family.
JANE // Wholesale Shop. Jane just received a second microloan to grow her wholesale shop's inventory, expanding the products available in her village.
Each of these clients is equipped with small business training and the coaching of a TOLI social worker. As they earn income and pay back the loan (most are less than $300), those funds are 'recycled,' providing another loan to a family in the very same community. And our local partners walk with them every step of the way, while bearing witness to the lasting hope that only Jesus Christ provides.
"Those that will trust upon the Lord, despite the challenge, they are still going to achieve their dreams." — NICHOLAS, TOLI SOCIAL WORKER, KENYA
So how are these clients prepared to face the challenges ahead? Through training, determination — and faith, says Nicholas Kirunja, a TOLI Social Worker in Kenya.
"Those that live in fear and doubt are not willing to start or even expand their businesses," Nicholas tells us. "But those that will trust upon the Lord, despite the challenge, they are still going to achieve their dreams. So long as they adhere to all the precautionary measures, God is going to give them victory."
In August, we expect at least 40 new microloans to be granted in locations where it's safe to do so. Now is a great time to invest in our courageous clients, as they start or rebuild a small business to provide for their families.
We're looking for Monthly Investors
Every new monthly donor in August gets a little thank you from us
Did you know that for as little as $25 a month, you can help provide a life-changing microloan every single year? These "Monthly Investors" fuel TOLI's ministry in a powerful, sustainable, and budget-friendly way.
Right now, we're looking for 10 new Monthly Investors to join this core team of support. And if you sign up in August, we'll even send you an awesome TOLI WATER BOTTLE as our way of saying thanks. Will you join the team? Click the button below, or contact Erin Eilmes for assistance.