Since 1996 FRWC has established three programs, partnering with Morning Star Sanctuary in Madison, TN, Women’s Resource Center of Bristol & Newport Counties, RI, and Sojourner House in Roxbury, MA. Each of these programs is a unique pilot, working with FRWC to deliver its mission of increasing the safety of women and children by helping to increase their financial stability. FRWC provides technical support to each of its partners but allows each program to establish its lending project to fit the needs of its clients.

Morning Star's lending program is volunteer driven, matching volunteer mentors with women who have stabilized sufficiently to receive a loan. They have made fourteen loans (totaling approximately $10,000) with three of those loans going to women who have repaid the first loan. One loan is in default; two are likely to be repaid, but slowly. All the rest have been repaid on time.

Women’s Resource Center in RI uses staff to deliver financial training which is now offered in classes at a number of sites. The first loan was made here in 2003 with the staff member providing ongoing mentoring and local donors providing funding.

Sojourner House is partnered with Roxbury Highland Community Bank through its affiliation with FRWC. In December of 2003, the first loan by the bank was made to a Sojourner House participant who is mentored by a volunteer.

If your program is interested in trying a lending project, we will gladly provide technical support. We have found that money management training and the possibility of receiving a loan energizes participants to get their finances in order. Our partners have also found that adding this component to their program helps to mobilize local community support. Please Contact Us for more information.