Hills NILs, a part of ECHO Youth and Family Services, is dedicated to providing individuals and families on low incomes with access to safe, fair, and affordable credit through their No Interest Loans program. They offer loans of up to $2,000 for essential goods and services like car repairs, medical costs, and household appliances, with repayment plans spread over 12 to 18 months. Eligibility criteria include earning less than $57,000 a year after tax or holding certain concession cards.
With a focus on the Eastern Dandenong Ranges communities in Victoria, Hills NILs aims to help people avoid high-interest loans by offering no fees, charges, or interest on their loans. Their services can be used for various purposes such as education expenses, health costs, and household needs, excluding cash, holidays, or fines. The organization ensures confidentiality and provides assistance in developing a budget to determine affordable repayment amounts.
Founded in 1984 as a youth group, ECHO Youth and Family Services has evolved into an independent charity offering a range of programs, including no interest loans, to support youth and families in the region. Governed by a dedicated volunteer board, ECHO receives funding from philanthropic organizations, government sources, and community donations to sustain its operations and continue serving the community effectively.