The MICAH Program – Q1 2026 Newsletter

MICAH Program Quarterly Update | 2026

Celebrating 6 Years of Serving Our Neighbors

2026 marks the sixth year of the MICAH Program serving financially vulnerable neighbors in Upstate South Carolina. Over these years, we have walked alongside individuals and families through a pandemic, rising inflation, and increasing costs for essentials like gasoline and electricity.

This work is only possible because of you.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to:

  • Donors who make low-cost loans possible 
  • Mentors who guide and support our neighbors 
  • Loan Review Panel members who ensure each loan is in the borrower’s best interest 

Your support allows us to offer a compassionate alternative to predatory lending.

A Snapshot of Financial Reality

Many of our neighbors seeking assistance share a similar financial picture:

  • $18/hour wage 
  • ~$2,880 monthly gross income 
  • ~$2,284 monthly take-home pay 

From this income, essential expenses must be covered—housing, transportation, food, and basic services like phones, internet, and healthcare.

In Greenville County, housing and transportation alone can consume 50% to 70% of take-home pay, even with shared housing. As a result, many individuals:

  • Have little or no savings 
  • Go without health insurance 
  • Are vulnerable to financial emergencies 

A single unexpected expense—such as a car repair or medical bill—can quickly create a crisis.

More Than a Loan

The MICAH Program provides low-cost loans that help neighbors navigate financial emergencies without turning to high-interest, predatory lenders.

Looking ahead, we are expanding our impact by developing:

  • Financial coaching 
  • Incentivized savings programs 

These efforts aim to help neighbors build lasting financial stability.

More details coming soon.

How You Can Help

Donate

Your tax-deductible gift helps neighbors avoid predatory debt and move toward stability.
Give online: micahprogram.org/donation
Mail:
MICAH Program
c/o St. Anthony’s
309 Gower Street
Greenville, SC 29611

Volunteer

Serve as a mentor, assist with loan reviews, or share your expertise.
Contact: contact@micahprogram.org | (864) 610-5380

Pray & Advocate

Pray for our neighbors and help spread awareness of fair lending alternatives.

Thank You

Thank you for helping bring hope, fairness, and dignity to our neighbors in need.

With gratitude,
The MICAH Program

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