Rising food and fuel prices will push over one billion people into famine or malnutrition this year.

Hunger on the Rise

Enough Food, but for Whom?

The real challenge is not the volume of food available; it is the problem of food being in the wrong place and at a price the poorest cannot afford.

It’s a small amount of money loaned to people who do not have access to formal financial institutions, such as banks.

What is Microcredit?

Microcredit—The Sharing Way

Esther in KENYA

“The fear is gone. I can now comfortably take care of my family.

I have achieved a lot in a short time even though I am a widow, because of the compassionate assistance of Africa Brotherhood Church and The Sharing Way. I thank God for them all.”

Krupanmaya Savings Group in INDIA

The chatter rarely stops as these women string flowers together to form the garlands that symbolize blessing and good fortune in India.

There is much to discuss as these women think about expanding their business to better support their families.

Elena in EL SALVADOR

Elena received a microcredit loan to increase her production of “saltenas” or meat pies.

With her loan she purchased a small oven and more baking supplies. She has a ready market in local schools and colleges.

Quick Questions about Microcredit

1. Why give loans to the very poor for self-

employment?

2. Are they charged interest?

3. Are the loans repaid?

4. Why business loans and not some other

form of aid?

5. How does microcredit help the poor?

Discussion

1. Recall the first loan you ever got and what you used it for.

2. How have rises in food prices effected you and your family?

3. How have rises in fuel prices effected you and your family?

4. What would you have to cut out of your life is you were spending 80% of your income just on food?

5. How is God calling you to respond to this crisis in the world?