The Cause

Why Give The Congo Cash?

As the world is becoming more an more connected, it is easier to lend a helping hand to those in need around the world. For most Americans, a loan is not terribly difficult to come by, but in other countries, even small amounts of money to help motivated entrepreneurs is hard to come by. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been an area of conflict for years, and those willing to build up the country and its economy in a sustainable fashion need the funds to achieve their goals.

KIVA

Unlike a charity, the money from the t-shirts is not given away, but it is loaned to those in need and repaid over a period of time. I disperse the money through a non-profit organization called KIVA, which allows me to choose which entrepreneurs I would like to give loans to. So far, Congo Cash t-shirts have supported over $500 worth in loans and every time a loan payment comes in, I disperse the money to another person in need. Due to a the loans being complete with all of Kiva's Congolese clients, I have lent to surrounding areas, and those in need. You can follow who your money goes to by visiting this site.

Since micro loans are repaid, your contribution can be dispersed over and over again. By helping entrepreneurs build up their community with lent money, you are not creating a dependence on external financial sources and therefore are avoiding some of the largest side effects of charitable giving.