Banks of Hope

• Women in the Dominican Republic do 67 percent of the work and own 58 percent of the businesses
• They utilize their resources to take care of their children-with better food, safer housing, and increased schooling
• These same women lack access to credit as well as the knowledge of developing and running a business
• Economic development within individual families results in better economic conditions for entire communities

Small business loans for women and their families can break the cycle of poverty, by generating income, education, health, and self worth. Esperanza, International has become one of the leading microfinance service organizations in the Dominican Republic…and the largest lender to the poorest of the poor through its "Banks of Hope" program.

The Players Trust has committed $100,000 to establish Banks of Hope in two communities. Because the loans are repaid with interest, the Trust's initial grant will provide ongoing funding for the program for years to come.

To date, with the assistance of the Players Trust, Esperanza has begun to combat poverty with:

A grateful family helped by Banks of Hope. (MLBPA)

• 39,096 loans granted
• 22,683 microenterprises created/sustained
• 7,150 active associates
• 428 Banks of Hope
• 98 percent repayment rate

A donation to the Players Trust can support Esperanza's efforts to facilitate real and sustainable change in the lives of women and families and have a lasting impact in their communities, as funds from this program are reinvested year after year.