JELF has one mission.
we lend with a heart.

College costs are rising and JELF is meeting the need.

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Who We Serve

JELF is dedicated to the Jewish students in the 5-state region of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia (excluding metro DC).

JELF believes that money should not stand between a student and the education that they need to excel in life.

jelf recipients become proud JELF donors and vital members of their Jewish communities – in turn, helping future Jewish students in need

396 recipients this year

Stellar 99% repayment rate

3,092 students funded in total

$20,000,000 in loans over time

Always 100% interest-free

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JELF Full Circle Story

Megan Williamson, Atlanta

"Because of JELF, I was able to enjoy college life while interning with two non-profits which led to employment at graduation and then became building blocks for the consulting role I am now in.”

JELF Full Circle Story

Sara Massachi Taylor, charlotte

"JELF was an academic lifesaver for me, allowing me to continue my college career after a sudden death in my family nearly forced me to leave college and head back home.  With the help of JELF, I was able to stay in school and earn my BSN.  Thank you, JELF!"  

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How a jelf loan is determined:

  • To determine a student’s JELF loan, JELF calculates the total cost to attend school for the academic year, including room/board, transportation, living expenses, supplies and more.  JELF then subtracts the student’s total financial resources from the total cost. 

  • After applying online with all required documentation, students and their cosigner(s) meet with a Local JELF Administrator (LJA). Through a one-on-one interview, JELF works to better understand the student’s financial situation --  beyond what their most recent tax return may show!

  • After the application process and LJA interview, loan applications are reviewed anonymously and confidentially by volunteers who then determine final loan decisions.  Students are notified shortly after and funds are dispersed directly to the student through ACH in two equal payments before each semester.

Last year alone the generosity of community donors helped 396 students achieve their educational goals.

Each year we have over 200 individuals, many of who are former recipients, who give their time to help Jewish students succeed. 

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