Poverty is one of the biggest problems that our world faces today. Many experts believe that the gap is widening and that simply throwing more aid at the problem only makes it worse. They also share that the best way to bring people out of poverty is by enabling people to pull themselves out. If you follow this blog, then you know that dealing with this important issue is something that I feel that more Christians should be actively participating in.

Microfinance ministries that loan (small) sums of money to people so that they can start their own businesses represent one of the latest movements that is making a big difference in several poverty-stricken communities. One organization that is doing some great work in this area is Enterprise Development International (www.endpoverty.org). They provide loans to people so that they can begin producing their own income streams. Often it is just a sewing machine, a rickshaw, or some other equipment that allows someone to start a small business. The really cool thing is that this money is repaid so that others can get then similar loans. Check out this video from the folks at Enterprise Development that explains how this works…

[youtube Ej9VokGkWJ8 Video :: Ending Poverty, One Family at a Time]

It is really easy to get involved. Some loans start at $25, so a small donation like this can virtually create a job for someone. Check out Enterprise Development’s “gift catalog” to find ways that you can contribute.