make a donation When you give back, Jewish students go forward.
JELF provides interest-free loans to deserving students each year. In 2024, JELF awarded $2,158,564 to 473 students. However, as inflation grows and the cost of living rises, we continue to face an annual funding gap.
We truly appreciate your support!
Why Support JELF?
College is getting more expensive
The average cost of college in the United States is $25K a year. This cost is only going to continue to grow.
Income rarely matches college costs
31% of the families JELF serves have a household income of under $50K. The Jewish community is not immune to debt or hardship.
JELF students repay their loans
We have a 99% student repayment rate. This means that your donation will live in perpetuity - as loans are paid back, these dollars are "recycled" to help more students going forward.
thank you, donors!
With JELF's 0% interest support, Arielle and her two siblings were able to enroll in college full-time and work towards earning their degree in four years!
Donor Testimonials
Atlanta, GA Brian Banner
College provided us with the opportunities to get where we are today and with our career and family. We feel really strong about JELF giving kids more opportunities.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jamie Raider
JELF was a huge assistance to me when I was a student - something I will never forget! I now enjoy being able to give back and help other students pursue their higher ed goals.
Virginia Beach, VA Ross & Anne Legum
Higher education is a priority for us so JELF’s mission of making it more accessible to those in need is something we love to support. There is no better gift than giving someone an opportunity they may not otherwise receive.
Are you 70.5 or older?
Learn how to support JELF with a Qualified Charitable Distribution from your IRA.
Make a Donation
JELF's Tax ID
58-0568686
Checks: Payable to JELF
6065 Roswell Rd, Suite 740
Atlanta, GA 30328
Sponsor a Student
Give a Jewish student the gift of a college loan for four years!
More Ways to Give:
Leave a Legacy
Notify JELF of a legacy gift or learn more about how to make one.
JELF Donation FAQs
Jewish Federation Support
Across JELF's five-state region, we are proudly endorsed and backed by over 20 Jewish Federations, demonstrating widespread community support.
Recognized as the highest-rated charity by Charity Navigator, JELF's four-star rating reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.
Loan. Learn. Lead.
"JELF’s last-dollar loans helped me afford my education at Emory University and the Medical College of Georgia back in the 1980s.
With today’s sky-high tuition, this kind of support can mean the difference between living in safe housing and working 40 hours a week while trying to earn a full-time degree.
I’m proud to give back so the next generation can access the most important thing in life — an education."