Adding to basket
Entrepreneurship isn't just an occupational alternative for Mercedes (53 years old): it's a necessity for bringing change to her personal, family, and community life. She is married and has five children over the age of 16. Three of her children have professional careers and two are in secondary school. Four are married, and Mercedes has five grandchildren. Her husband is a retired security agent. For twenty years, Mercedes has worked selling food, corn tortillas and snacks made to order. And seven years ago, she started a new business selling fruit and casual clothing. To generate additional income, she also resells firewood and avocado seasonally. Mercedes is requesting her Kiva loan that will allow her to buy more firewood, which is in high demand, and new clothing to satisfy customer demand.
Mercedes is the president of the Friendship Bridge communal bank called “Torre Fuerte Balcones.” They are eight women who speak Spanish and run small businesses such as food sales, tortillas, convenience stores, and fast food. Each month, they meet to make loan payments, and at the end, they receive educational presentations as part of the Friendship Bridge “Microcrédito Plus” program. They appreciate participating in these trainings focused on four basic themes: business, health, education, and family. They advance their knowledge and skills for success.
Thank you, Kiva lenders!
In this group: Mariza Nineth , Mercedes De Jesus , Joaquina Salome , Fulvia Emireth , Sayra Magaly , Greisy Ileana , Dulce Yesenia, Mirna Nineth
Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteer Laura Kanost. View original language description.
