General JELF Faces Unprecedented Student Demand Gap in Five-State Region, Urges Community Support

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Atlanta, June 30, 2023] – JELF, the Jewish Educational Loan Fund. is currently grappling with an unprecedented gap in student demand in its five-state region encompassing Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia (excluding metro DC). Since 2022, the funding gap has surged by $500,000, reaching a staggering $2.9 million, compared to $2.4 million the previous year.

This significant increase in the funding gap can be attributed to a combination of factors. One key factor is the growing number of student applicants, highlighting the pressing need for financial assistance within the Jewish student community. Additionally, the surge in inflation rates and rising costs of essential expenses such as books, mileage, utilities, and food have further exacerbated the situation.

JELF, a trusted non-profit organization committed to providing interest-free loans to Jewish students, has a long-standing history of empowering individuals to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of overwhelming debt. Through their initiatives, JELF has made a lasting impact on countless lives, ensuring that financial obstacles do not hinder the pursuit of education.

“We believe that education should be accessible to all, and we are dedicated to supporting Jewish students in achieving their academic goals,” said Jenna Shulman, CEO of JELF. “However, the increasing demand for our assistance combined with rising costs poses a significant challenge. We are reaching out to our community, individuals, and organizations, who share our passion for empowering students, to help bridge this widening funding gap.”

Recognizing the vital role education plays in shaping the future of Jewish students, JELF is calling upon the community to join forces in supporting these aspiring scholars. By lending their passion and financial support, community members can contribute to the reduction of interest-bearing debt and assist Jewish students in obtaining their degrees while saving thousands of dollars.

Donations to JELF can directly impact the lives of Jewish students by providing interest-free loans that alleviate the burden of student debt. Contributions made to JELF will enable students to focus on their studies, unlock their potential, and ultimately contribute to the betterment of society.

To learn more about JELF and make a donation, please visit jelf.org or contact Josh Schaier.

About JELF: JELF (Jewish Educational Loan Fund) is a non-profit organization committed to providing interest-free loans to Jewish students in need of financial assistance for higher education. With a mission to ensure access to affordable education, JELF has been empowering students in their pursuit of academic excellence since 1961. By offering interest-free loans, JELF aims to minimize the burden of student debt and open doors of opportunity for Jewish students across our five-state region.