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About
The Hebrew Free Loan Society (HFLS), founded in 1892 in New York City, is the oldest interest-free loan organization in the United States and the nation's oldest Jewish interest-free lending institution. It operates on the principle of gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness), providing interest-free loans to individuals and families in financial need regardless of their background, helping borrowers maintain dignity and self-sufficiency. Over its more than 130 years of service, HFLS has disbursed millions in loans supporting education, emergencies, housing, and small business ventures, and has expanded to serve diverse communities beyond just Jewish populations. The organization has served as a model for similar societies worldwide, shaping the landscape of interest-free lending in America. HFLS affiliates with groups like the Jewish Free Loan Association and collaborates with other social service providers to address poverty and economic instability. Its loan programs are tailored to various life stages including support for college students, immigrants, and those facing medical crises, with flexible repayment terms. Governed by a volunteer board and staffed by professionals committed to financial inclusion, HFLS continues to innovate by incorporating modern financial education and technology to enhance its impact. Throughout its history, the organization has navigated economic downturns and social changes while maintaining its core mission, receiving recognition for its ethical lending practices and community contributions.