History

In 1904, a small group of businessmen met in the thriving city of Los Angeles to establish an organization to grant loans to the needy without interest or any other charges. Over one hundred years ago, loans were granted to help buy a sewing machine or a pushcart for fruits and vegetables. Throughout the 20th century, JFLA has played a vital role in the community, as an original member of Community Chest in 1927, the precursor to the United Way. In 1929, JFLA moved into the Federation of Jewish Welfare building and has since remained a beneficiary agency of The Jewish Federation.

During World War II, JFLA was instrumental in helping thousands of families get a fresh start in the US; after the Watts riots in 1965, JFLA assisted businesses in rebuilding; in the late 1980's, with the rising costs of higher education, JFLA created the first of its many student loan funds; and in 1994, in the wake of the Northridge earthquake, JFLA granted cash loans to those who had to vacate their homes or who could not access bank accounts.

Today, JFLA continues to provide a helping hand instead of a handout through interest-free loans for emergencies, education, developing small businesses, healthcare and life cycle events. Currently, JFLA grants approximately 1,200 loans per year, there is more than $7 million in interest-free loans circulating throughout the community, and JFLA maintains a repayment rate greater than 99%. There are few community resources that offer financial assistance, and interest-free loans instead of charity, encourage dignity and self-respect. 

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