SMFS: We Build Partnerships

Southern Mutual Financial Services, Inc., (SMFS) is a Louisiana 501(c)3 corporation dedicated to removing barriers to affordable capital for low-wealth families and communities. Certified as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in November 2000, SMFS was created by Southern Mutual Help Association, Inc., (SMHA) to fill the need for affordable finance capital for poor families and communities in rural South Louisiana. Local bank partners encouraged the creation of SMFS and eight area banks have helped capitalize the CDFI.

SMFS is a vital part of the Louisiana Rural Home Loan Partnership (RHLP) created by SMHA in 1997. The RHLP helps our bank partners reach previously untapped home loan markets as well as earn Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit. SMFS and SMHA build bridges between the financial mainstream and the poor families who have been left behind. The success of the RHLP taught bank partners that low-income families are a viable lending market – a market that needs even more products and services designed to meet their needs.

I own a little piece of Louisiana now -- I own a piece of America
I can say I really own a ‘piece of the rock.’

-- SMHA Homeowner








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