Dear Friends,
We are proud to be contributing part of an initiative led by the International Association of
Jewish Free Loans (IAJFL), which is providing a $3.4M interest-free loan to Ogen, our sister
agency in Israel. Along with the IAJFL and sixteen other member agencies, we are joining
together to provide emergency financial assistance to Israeli individuals and families.
Ogen has launched its Swords of Iron Emergency Relief Fund in response to the widespread
economic turmoil in Israel following the October 7 terrorist attacks and the ongoing war against
Hamas. Ogen is offering interest-free loans to assist tens of thousands of Israelis who have been
displaced from their homes or who are facing other economic challenges caused by the war.
We’re honored to stand in solidarity with Ogen, helping to provide this meaningful support in a
time of extraordinary need.
“In ordinary times, our lending is restricted to local needs, but this is no ordinary time.
Thousands of Israelis need financial support to cope with the war’s economic impact.
Partnering with Ogen is a natural way for IAJFL member agencies to help by providing
immediate funds and showing Israelis that we care. When the loans are repaid, these
funds will be recycled to help us meet needs in America.”
Rabbi David Rosenn, President & CEO, Hebrew Free Loan Society (New York)
KEY QUESTIONS:
What is Ogen?
Founded in 1990 as the Israel Free Loan Association, Ogen is the largest nonprofit lender in Israel
committed to advancing financial well-being, inclusion, and opportunities for the people of Israel.
Ogen loans support three pivotal sectors: individuals and families, small businesses, and
nonprofit organizations.
Ogen manages a credit portfolio valued at 500 million NIS ($131 million). They have disbursed
over 75,000 loans, amounting to nearly 2 billion NIS since their inception.
In terms of enabling North American Jewish Free Loan organizations to make a difference in
Israel, Ogen is an ideal partner – they do what we do in Israel at scale and with excellent results.
What needs is Ogen meeting in Israel now?
Ogen is already lending to Israelis displaced from their homes in the South and North of Israel, to
people affected by the sudden mobilization of soldiers in their families, and to people whose
homes, cars, and property were damaged or destroyed in recent attacks.
In all, Ogen projects a need for over $30M in capital to cover additional lending needs created by
the October 7th attacks and the ensuing war.
While this figure includes lending Ogen will make to individuals and families, to nonprofits that
have stepped up to meet needs across Israel, and to small businesses feeling the economic
impact of the war, the funds that IAJFL lent to Ogen will be loaned only to individuals and families
directly affected by the war.
To support the Jewish community please donate to HFLA today.
