PHOTO: Altagracia Jose.

Altagracia Jose

La Guerra,
El Seibo.

When Esperanza International first entered the community of “La Guerra” in the eastern province of El Seibo, eight years ago, it had only been two months since Altagracia Jose lost her husband. She was distraught, and left to take care of nine children on her own. Altagracia was first approached by Esperanza’s loan officer, Johanna, who explained the organizations Missions and Benefits. She was hesitant to join at first and thought there might be a catch to it. However, after discussing with another member of her community she gave it some thought and joined...

PHOTO: Juan Manuel Rodriguez.

Juan Manuel Rodriguez

Consuelo,
San Pedro de Macorís

Our associate Juan Manuel Rodríguez aspires to be the owner of the Dominican Republic’s next big fast food chain. Eight years ago Juan Manuel started his fried food business in his home, with a small loan of 3,000 Dominican pesos ($79 US Dollars). For Juan Manuel, receiving microcredit was crucial, since at the time he was unemployed, with two children to take care of and had no vision of economic independence....

PHOTO: Rosa Jeane.

Rosa Jeane

Batey Solano,
El Seibo.

Rosa Jeane has been an Esperanza Associate for, little over, a year. Prior to joining Esperanza, Rosa had difficulties getting access to funds to invest in her business, and fell prone to local loan sharks, with interest rates at 20% per week. She lived in a constant struggle to pay back the loans and was unable to save or gain any profit. This made it difficult for her to take care of her two children. However, since joining Esperanza, Rosa has noticed a great difference in her business...

PHOTO: Teolinda Pimentel.

Teolinda Pimentel

Magua

Teolinda is a shining example of microfinance success! A single mother of two teenagers, Teolinda diligently worked to not only provide for her family but also to serve the community. She now takes classes at the university, and wants to share her knowledge with her neighbors….

PHOTO: Xiomara Vidal.

Xiomara Vidal

San Pedro de Macorís

Five years ago, Xiomara received crushing news from the doctor - her three year old daughter Merelly was suffering from numerous medical complications and would likely die if Xiomara did not quit her job and spend more time caring for her. As a mother, of course she knew she had to do this, but a stark reality stood in her way…