LifeWise StL‘s Lending Circles program — and current participant Sandra — were recently featured in St. Louis Magazine.
From her first lending circle to a 739 credit score AND a car of her own, Sandra’s story shows how LifeWise StL Economic Wellness lending circles transform financial futures—one shared pot at a time.
More than 300 people participate in our lending circles each year!
Sandra has been part of LifeWise StL for more than eight years and was one of the six participants who helped launch our first Lending Circles in 2017. At the time, she had no established credit history. After the first six-month round, her credit score rose from 0 to 542—a powerful start toward financial stability.
Sandra has continued participating in Lending Circles, using them not only to strengthen her credit but also as a savings strategy. Today, her credit score is an impressive 739.
When she joined the program, Sandra’s main goal was “to improve financially and pay off my medical debts.” A year later, she also enrolled in our Individual Development Account (IDA) program and was able to purchase a car—an important step toward greater independence. Reflecting on her experience, Sandra shared that she “learned a lot in the classes—things people usually don’t know or talk about.”
Now, Sandra continues to build on what she’s learned, saving with purpose and working toward her next goal: buying her own home. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when knowledge, community, and opportunity come together.
