Just a few years ago, Agusta had lost everything she owned due to the disastrous effects of El Niño and the bankruptcy of her local bank. Fortunately she ran into a former neighbor who had become a credit officer for one of our partner MFIs. Augusta asked for $250 to start a food stand on the street. Soon she was soon able to move from the streets to a house. With just three tables, 12 chairs and some pans to cook, she launched a small restaurant in her home, and named it after her mother: Comida El Paso Lolita.

The business is truly a family affair, employing her husband, children and two other employees. Augusta has benefited from more than just financial loans. The training our MFI provides on savings and small-business management are helping her achieve her real dream: a franchise she can leave to her children to run in the future. Her latest loan of $1000 will be used to buy an oven and other assets to consolidate the family business. Photography: Fundación Espoir

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