No longer vulnerable to loan sharks

For years, Mary Msoni sorted through bundles of donated secondhand clothing in Lusaka, Zambia, to resell for a slim margin. Hoping to expand, she started selling new dresses, but her household expenses still left her with little money to invest in her business. Her only options for capital were loan sharks who charged exorbitant interest rates.

Mary (left) and her daughter in the store

When Mary heard about savings groups at her church, she was excited: “I saw a good future for us because the plan was to work together.” Inspired by the early Church in Acts 2, Mary’s savings group has become a rich community of friends, business investors, and prayer partners that encourage each other through life’s challenges.

I don’t feel lonely because I always have someone to turn to,” Mary says.

And Mary’s business is finally growing: “After joining the savings group, I now have more inventory. And if I need to take a loan, I do not have to go to a loan shark.”

We’re looking for more Dream Investors to come alongside more entrepreneurs like Mary! Opting into an ongoing, monthly gift to HOPE is an act of tenacious generosity and demonstrates your commitment to unlocking the God-given potential of men and women living in poverty. Join our monthly giving community.