As a small foundation, we are unfortunately unable to handle the hundreds of loan requests we receive annually. Instead, our staff and board seek out unique projects that we believe have an expansive impact on addressing poverty through ingenuity and replicability. We offer no grants, and regrettably make no exceptions to this policy.

• Home Care Associates - Philadelphia

Business cooperative of mostly former welfare recipients, who are trained to provide superior home health care support to home bound people. A truly successful welfare-to-work model.


• Equal Exchange - Massachusetts

Fair trade worker-owned cooperative that supports small farmer cooperatives that use sustainable methods to produce coffee, tea, chocolate and more.


• The Landless Workers Movement (MST) - Brazil

Project assisting over one million formerly landless people to reclaim fallow land and achieve self-sufficiency. Hal has visited this project three times.


• Belu - England

Water bottling company that will use its profits (and has already donated funds) to address clean water issues in developing countries. Belu uses glass as well as unique biodegradable and compostable water bottles!


• Urban Partnership Bank (formerly ShoreBank), Rehab CD's - Chicago

Bank providing no-interest loans to minority firms rehabbing abandoned apartment buildings thus providing jobs and housing.


• Fonkoze - Haiti

Non-profit bank providing loans to people without collateral. Fonkoze has stayed in operation despite hurricane devastation and national political turmoil.


• Fresh Look Hair - Delaware

Family business offering all natural products to straighten curly, kinky and wavy hair without harsh chemicals. Comedian Chris Rock’s documentary, “Good Hair”, underscores the danger to individuals and the environment by the many toxic hair products on the market.