Indepth analysis of persistant problems in the field of community development. Woodstock's research reports contribute to the body of knowledge used by policymakers and community development practitioners.
This report uses public court files to document the loan terms, conditions, and litigation tactics of one of the largest payday lenders in Illinois. The findings are based on a sample of 444 debt collection cases filed against payday loan customers.
A guide for congregations interested in understanding their community investment options, with descriptions of financial and management aspects, as well as social benefits, of different investment options. Examples provided.
Documents the disproportionate concentration of liquor stores in lower-income and African-American neighborhoods in Cook County, Illinois. Also examines efforts and policies in Chicago and around the country to curb excessive liquor store densities in lower-income communities. Makes recommendations to stem the conditions that lead to liquor store over-concentration and blight.
This study finds that minorities and lower-income people who use these
"fringe banks" pay higher prices for basic financial services. In
addition to demonstrating the high costs charged by CEs, this Alert
makes recommendations aimed at encouraging greater use of banks by
these CE users, at reducing excessive fees charged by CEs, and at
increasing consumer awareness of the relative costs of financial
services.
This report analyzes data on 504 lending for the
entire nation and for the Chicago metropolitan area to discern whether
this SBA program is serving sound economic development purposes.
