SMFS: We Build Hope

SMFS provides a much-needed alternative source of credit for families. SMFS offers mortgage loans to low- to moderate-income families at rates and terms that meet their needs and fit their budgets. Through the Louisiana Rural Home Loan Partnership (RHLP), SMFS connects very low- and low-income families to mortgage loans that offer 100% financing (including closing costs) at blended interest rates (from 4% to 7%) that make homeownership possible for families whose low affordability would otherwise prevent them from qualifying for a mortgage loan. SMFS has created an innovative consumer loan product that allows poor families to purchase consumer goods at interest rates that keep their money out of the hands of predatory lenders, and offers micro loans that help poor people, women, and people of color start or expand small, home-based businesses that create opportunity for others in their communities. SMFS returns hope to people who traditionally have lost all hope.

SMFS is committed to its mission, and over the next five years will increase development and financial capacity to expand the building of viable, healthy, and sustainable rural communities in South Louisiana. SMFS helps residents, farmers, and business leaders develop a quality of life in rural communities that is environmentally and economically sound and just. SMFS uses family and community development, homeownership, consumer and micro loans to build self-esteem, strengthen families, and cultivate local leadership. SMHA’s development programs teach families how to protect themselves from those who seek to take advantage of them, help families establish relationships with a bank or credit union, and teach them how to build assets through regular savings – helping hard-working families that are poor because they pay too much for their money.

Low income families pay too much for financing of consumer goods. Education on how to make an informed decision on financing of consumer goods is greatly needed. Low income families need the availability of market rate consumer financing for goods needed by new homeowners.


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