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Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) is the JELF partner for South Florida. In 2023, the Jewish Educational Loan Fund (JELF) provided 0 percent interest loans to 438 students, disbursing a total of $2,025,261. Among them, 38 students from Miami received essential support for their academic pursuits.
“It is a privilege for JCS to continue its long-standing partnership with JELF” said Miriam Singer, JCS president and CEO.
JELF, the Jewish organization exclusively focused on college financial aid, stands out in its commitment to higher education. Since 1961, JELF has provided over $16 million to 5,500 students in the five-state region of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia (excluding metro DC), boasting a remarkable 99 percent repayment rate.
As the 2024-25 academic year approaches, JELF invites Jewish students to apply for interest-free loans tailored for higher education, covering college, graduate school, and vocational programs. The application period is open now until Apr. 30.
JCS takes pride in its collaborative efforts with JELF, a partnership dedicated to aiding local Jewish students in achieving their educational aspirations.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a JELF loan:
1. Permanent resident of FL, GA, SC, NC, and VA (excluding metro DC);
2. Enrolled full-time in a program leading to a degree or certificate;
3. In good academic standing;
4. Planning to accept federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans;
5. Able to provide a co-signer who resides in the U.S., and
6. U.S. citizen or have lawful immigration status.
JELF’s interest-free loans cover educational and living expenses often overlooked by traditional financial aid, including travel, rent, food, and books. By offering 0 percent interest loans, JELF saves borrowers thousands of dollars annually, alleviating the burden of high-interest student loan debt that affects 45 million Americans.
The unique strength of JELF’s “free loan” model lies in its sustainability. Repaid funds continue to serve the next generation of students, forming a cycle of support. While former recipients pay back their loans, community donors remain essential to meeting the challenges of rising tuition and inflation.
Recently elected board chair Emily Sauerteig emphasized the enduring impact of contributions to JELF.
“As I step into this role, I am deeply committed to ensuring JELF’s continued success in empowering students through education,” Sauerteig said. “My passion for the mission, coupled with the generosity of our community, will drive us to new heights. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of aspiring students.”
For more information about applications for local students, contact Gareth Fink at gfink@jcsfl.org. For more information about JELF, visit jelf.org, email info@jelf.org, or call 770-396-3080.
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