May 25, 2022 - In the first 75 days (March 2, 2022 - May 16, 2022) of the SAFE Program, IRC-CEO has approved and disbursed 66 loans for a total of $616,126. That means $8,215 a day in SAFE 0% APR loans in the financial accounts of resettled Afghan parolees. The program was reached more than 2,000 people in the first two months through a mix of online videos, 1:1 coaching sessions, and live financial education classes.
Credit Building Loans provide parolees a starting point for their credit scores, which increases access to the U.S. financial system. Personal loans can help with a variety of costs associated with resettlement. A majority of loans funded so far are for auto loans. Access to transportation increases employment prospects for clients, as well as access to community resources.
What is SAFE?
Support for Afghan Financial Empowerment (SAFE) is a nationwide, evidence-based, practical initiative designed to help the 70,000+ Afghan humanitarian parolees build a financial foundation in their new neighborhoods by offering linguistic and culturally appropriate education and counseling and access to 0% APR financing. A partnership between IRC and IRC-CEO, SAFE is a three-year project uniquely positioned to help our new Afghan neighbors invest in themselves and their new American communities. To learn more about SAFE, visit the SAFE website at safeirc.org
We are actively seeking investment and funding to continue strengthening this program. If you or your organization are interested in contributing, please contact us through our contact form.
