[TroutStalker]

Those newly freed from debt must attend a seminar on staying solvent. Then the pastor meets with them periodically to see where they stand. So far, he says, there have been no backsliders. "Once you get that weight off your shoulders, you never want to go back," says Mr. Beaver.

This is a faith-based program with no government involved. The people participate voluntarily in a program that helps them get debt relief that would be almost impossible at 20% interest rates. I would compare it to the Amish model of lending to community members at no interest, in the best interests of the community.

[twigs]

It still sounds to me like someone else is paying off another person's foolishness. I understand the idea behind this. However, I still don't think it's a good idea. My step-son is several thousand dollars in debt and I wouldn't pay him out of it if I was a millionaire. He needs to learn that discipline for himself. Sounds to me like good intentions run awry.