​For several generations, farm families in North MS have produced, packed and shipped sweet potatoes that come from a rich, fertile soil. The people of Vardaman have embraced their farming history, proclaiming it the "Sweet Potato Capital of the World."

446 Farms in Vardaman is Renaissance's first agricultural business loan client. We are excited to be a part of the continuing success of this multi-generational farm, focused on bringing wholesome and nutritious sweet potatoes to America's consumers as a part of the farm-to-table produce industry.

​Renaissance Community Loan Fund, a statewide non-profit community lender, has been awarded $750,000 from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. The grant is part of the highly competitive 2020 CDFI Program, which was established to serve low-income communities across the country through financial and technical assistance.
 
RCLF, which provides tailored mortgage and business lending options, along with personalized financial counseling for all of its clients, will use the award to expand accessibility to its products and services across Mississippi. RCLF is the only Community Development Financial Institution located in Mississippi with 100% of its activities remaining in Mississippi. RCLF’s primary objective is to expand economic opportunity to all communities in Mississippi.
 
“The CDFI award will allow RCLF to continue our responsible and affordable lending in Mississippi,” said Kimberly LaRosa, president and CEO of Renaissance Community Loan Fund. “We are committed to the communities in which we live and serve, especially those areas in the state that are often underserved or not served.”
 
For information on Renaissance Community Loan Fund and its lending programs that are available throughout Mississippi, visit www.rclfms.com.