Microfinance here in Seattle?

Microfinance is best known for lending programs for the poor, but it’s more than that, comprising the provision of a whole spectrum of financial products and services to the poor.  We sometimes forget the importance of the simple things…a safe place to put your money (tho one might wonder about that these days of financial turmoil , a way to transact (write checks, use debit card), as well as a way to borrow.  Even right here in Seattle the poor and homeless lack access to these services and I was pleased to hear of a recent launch of the “Bank on Seattle”…a new program making it easier tand cheaper for people to open savings and checking accounts.   A great idea and a great reminder of microfinance right here at home.  As described in the Seattle Times: