Residents of Central Otago will have better access to no and low interest loans that have a focus on long-term financial wellbeing thanks to Good Shepherds NZ’s Good Loans Programme. 

The Good Loans programme, which is supported by BNZ and MSD, is being extended into Alexandra, Cromwell and Wanaka thanks to Presbyterian Support Otago (PSO).

Michelle Copland, the new Good Loans worker for PSO, knows from experience that there is a lack of financial support for those in the region who don’t meet traditional banking criteria.

“When I moved to Cromwell, I spent many years as a single mother on an extremely tight budget struggling to meet my everyday costs,” she says. 

“It was a very stressful time. I wish Good Loans was available when I needed it as this would have alleviated huge stress.” 

Good Loans is designed to support those who need a financial helping hand whilst improving personal and financial wellbeing.

It provides a fair and affordable way for people living on limited incomes to purchase essential items such as: second-hand cars, car repairs, new household appliances, computers, course costs, debt solution loans and medical expenses.

Debt solution loans are part of Good Shepherd NZ’s DEBTsolve programme, which combines debt coaching, advocacy and debt solution loans of up to $10,000 to help with unmanageable debt.

“We are providing an alternative to the ‘shark type lenders’ who often don’t do a credit check and have hefty fees and interest rates,” Michelle says. 

“Our limited income families are vulnerable and often an easier target for these companies.”

Good Loans will build financial capability in the region. 

Clients will work with Michelle to explore the best options for their financial situation and learn how to become more savvy in their understanding of the dangers of third tier lenders.

“I have a passion for helping others build financial capabilities and jumped at the opportunity to work with PSO and Good Shepherd NZ.”

Michelle will also be able to offer other forms of support that may be of interest to clients, such as DEBTsolve or other financial capability services, regardless of the outcome of the loan enquiry.

For more information about Good Loans you can:

• Visit: www.goodloans.org.nz
• Call PSO: 0800 477 711
• Email PSO: [email protected]