The Lar da Bênção Divina is a non-governmental organization, established in 1956, that provides support services to needy communities around Congonhas Airport, in São Paulo. Currently, the Home provides assistance to more than 300 needy families from the communities of Coreia, Vila Inglesa and Vila Santa Catarina, through two main projects: the Early Childhood Education Center (CEI) and the Child and Adolescent Center (CCA).
The Lar's business model is based on pedagogical, cultural and educational activities and the sources of revenue for the organization's operations range from agreements with the public sector to charitable events, while the organization's sources of expenses are concentrated on personnel expenses and third-party services.
The problem:
The financial situation of the Home is quite volatile and it is heavily dependent on donations. In 2012, the main source of revenue was no longer the City Hall of São Paulo (through the CEI and CCA projects) but the Regional Education Board of Santo Amaro. The rest of the revenue came from various donations, which in 2014 represented 38% of the total revenue. However, the share of donations and their absolute value have fallen significantly from 2012 to the present. In addition, access to credit is restricted to lines of credit for individuals – directors of the Home and partners of Santa Fé Portfolios – a resource management company associated with the Home.
The solution:
Lar da Bênção Divina came to Sitawi seeking a bridging loan to support operations until October, when the annual charity dinner will be held, an event that historically accounts for approximately 20% of the organization's annual revenue. A social loan of R$75,000 was made in August 2015.
The impact:
The social impact of the Home is achieved through education and the introduction of children and young people to the world of music, culture and arts for the needy population of the communities surrounding Congonhas Airport. By 2015, more than 2.3 million soups had been served, 2,789 children had been helped, and 4,900 families had been helped, with an average of 261 visits per year.
Discover the Home of Divine Blessing at: www.bencaodivina.org.br
