HFLA-SA Helps Students Overcome Financial Obstacles
May 5, 2022
Earning a bachelor’s degree in four years is no longer the norm. According to National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), more than 50% of students take six years or more to finish their undergraduate degree. At the same time, many students are earning college credits in high school via Advanced Placement (AP) classes or online/in-person courses. So, why the delay? More often than not, the cost of tuition is the primary barrier.
Maimonides taught that “There is no greater form of tzedakah (charity) than anonymously helping someone help themselves”. While a handout provides momentary relief, a loan preserves that sense of self-sufficiency and dignity.
Since 1924, Hebrew Free Loan of San Antonio has practiced the fundamental Torah principle, “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.” – Exodus 22:24 (Parasha Mishpatim).
HFLA-SA 0-% interest education loans (up to $5,000/year) are disbursed directly to students for tuition, fees, books, or living expenses. These loans save thousands of dollars over commercial loans, champion self-sufficiency, and connect students to the Jewish community.
While repayments recycle into new loans, we also increase lending capacity thanks to the generous support from the Jewish Federation of San Antonio and other community donors. Respect, Compassion, Confidentiality – HFLA-SA’s Board and staff remain committed to helping local Jewish community members who turn to us. Together, we continue building a stronger community . . . one interest-free loan at a time. Because ‘Life Happens!’
If HFLA-SA can help you with a 0%-interest education loan, another loan or you would like to support our work, please call 210-736-4352 or visit hfla-sa.org.
HFLA-SA is proud to partner with the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, San Antonio Jewish Senior Services, Jewish War Veterans of America Post 753, and B’nai B’rith Alamo Brandeis Lodge 211, to help members of our Jewish community meet economic challenges one interest-free loan at a time.