Estelle

By far, one of the largest microloans we have given out was to Estelle.  Estelle has received multiple microloans from TLJ.  With her last microloan she opened and then expanded her restaurant, Mayrita.  Estelle employs a number of women.  Vince has dined in Mayrita and enjoyed some of the best fried chicken he has eaten. 

To give some context to loans, an average corporate bank loan would charge 35-40% annual interest for retaurant of this size and Estelle's financial resources. This interest rate discourages is a non-starter for any low income entrepreneur who wants to start a business to help support a family.  We were able to give Estelle and her family an interest rate of 5%.  Vince has known Estelle for over 25 years and can say her and her family are true friends of TLJ.