Community Loans: Empowering Through Outreach Projects

Community loans have increasingly become a vital tool for empowering individuals and communities through outreach projects. These loans serve as a means to provide financial support, resources, and knowledge to those in need, enabling them to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. For instance, consider the hypothetical case of Sarah, a single mother struggling to start her own business in an underprivileged neighborhood. Through a community loan program, Sarah was able to access the necessary funds and mentoring she needed to launch her venture successfully.

The concept of community loans centers around the idea of fostering self-sufficiency and resilience within marginalized communities by providing them with opportunities they might not otherwise have had access to. By eliminating traditional barriers such as credit history or collateral requirements, these loans aim to empower individuals like Sarah who possess limited financial resources but abundant potential. Moreover, community loan programs often incorporate educational components that equip borrowers with essential skills in areas such as financial management and entrepreneurship. This comprehensive approach ensures long-term success for both borrowers and the wider community by cultivating sustainable growth and development.

Eligibility criteria for community loans

Imagine a small business owner named Sarah, who has dreams of expanding her bakery to meet the rising demand in her community. However, like many entrepreneurs, she lacks the necessary funds to turn her vision into reality. This is where Community Loans comes in – an organization dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses through outreach projects.

eligibility criteria:

To ensure that our resources are utilized effectively and fairly, Community Loans has established specific eligibility criteria for applicants seeking financial assistance. These criteria serve as guidelines to identify those individuals or organizations most likely to benefit from our support.

  1. Financial need:
    Applicants must demonstrate a genuine need for financial assistance in order to achieve their goals. This may include providing proof of limited access to traditional banking services or other funding options.

  2. Impact on the community:
    Community Loans prioritizes projects that have a positive impact on the local community. Whether it’s creating job opportunities, addressing social issues, or promoting sustainability, we believe in supporting initiatives that contribute towards building stronger communities.

  3. Feasibility and sustainability:
    It is important for applicants to present a realistic plan outlining how they intend to utilize the loan amount and generate sufficient revenue to repay it within a reasonable timeframe. A well-thought-out project with clear objectives and attainable milestones increases the likelihood of approval.

  4. Commitment and dedication:
    Successful candidates must exhibit a strong commitment towards achieving their goals and making a lasting difference in their community. This can be demonstrated through previous involvement in similar projects or by showcasing relevant skills and experience.

Emotional Bullet Points:

  • Empowering individuals and businesses
  • Creating opportunities for economic growth
  • Strengthening local communities
  • Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship

Table: Economic Benefits

Benefit Description
Job Creation Generating employment opportunities for community members
Increased Revenue Boosting local economy through increased sales and business transactions
Skill Development Enhancing skillsets of individuals, leading to long-term career advancement
Poverty Reduction Contributing towards reducing poverty levels in the community

By adhering to these eligibility criteria, Community Loans aims to ensure that our resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. Our commitment lies not only in providing financial assistance but also in fostering a sense of empowerment within communities. Now that we have established the guidelines for eligibility, let us explore the process for applying for a community loan and how we can help turn dreams into reality.

[Transition Sentence]

In the subsequent section about “Process for applying for a community loan,” we will delve into the step-by-step procedure applicants need to follow in order to access our financial support.

Process for applying for a community loan

Having explored the eligibility criteria for community loans, let us now delve into the process of applying for such loans. To better understand this process, consider the case of a hypothetical community organization called “Green Earth Society.”

Process for Applying for a Community Loan

  1. Initial Consultation:
    Before initiating the loan application process, organizations like Green Earth Society typically schedule an initial consultation with the lending institution. During this meeting, they discuss their project proposal and provide relevant documentation to support it. This step allows both parties to establish open communication channels and ensures that the organization’s objectives align with the lender’s requirements.

  2. Documentation Submission:
    Once the initial consultation is complete, Green Earth Society gathers all necessary documents required by the lending institution. These might include financial statements, tax returns, business plans, and any other supporting evidence related to their outreach project. Submitting comprehensive and well-prepared documentation increases the chances of a successful loan application.

  3. Review Process:
    After receiving all pertinent documents from Green Earth Society, the lending institution initiates its review process. Herein lies an opportunity to create an emotional connection between lenders and borrowers; while reviewing applications, lenders often acknowledge applicants’ commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. As part of this procedure, lenders assess factors such as creditworthiness, repayment capacity, and alignment with social impact goals.

  4. Decision Notification:
    Finally, after thorough evaluation of Green Earth Society’s proposal and financial standing, the lending institution communicates their decision regarding loan approval or rejection. In cases where additional information may be needed or conditions must be met before finalizing the loan agreement, there may be room for negotiation between both parties.

Through empathetic consideration during each step of this process – understanding how important these projects are to community growth and development – we foster collaboration between borrowers and lenders towards achieving shared aspirations.

Emotional Bullet Point List

The following aspects evoke an emotional response when considering community loans:

  • Empowering individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in their communities.
  • Enabling the realization of social initiatives that may otherwise face financial constraints.
  • Fostering collective responsibility for community development by providing financial support.
  • Promoting sustainable growth through investments directed towards outreach projects.

Emotional Table

Aspects Emotional Response
Sense of empowerment Motivation, determination
Financial assistance Relief, hope
Social and environmental impact Fulfillment, pride
Collaborative effort for development Unity, shared purpose

Understanding the application process is crucial to securing a community loan. In the subsequent section, we will explore the steps involved in loan approval for community loans.

Steps involved in loan approval for community loans

Transitioning from the previous section discussing the process of applying for a community loan, let us now delve into understanding the various steps involved in the approval process. To illustrate this further, consider the case of a hypothetical community organization named “Brighter Futures” seeking financial assistance to establish a vocational training center.

The first step that Brighter Futures would undertake is to submit their loan application along with all relevant supporting documents, such as business plans and financial statements. This initial documentation allows lenders to assess the feasibility of the project and determine its potential impact on the community.

Once the loan application has been submitted, it undergoes a thorough evaluation by an expert team comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds including finance, social work, and entrepreneurship. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive analysis of both financial aspects and social impact potential of each project proposal. The evaluation criteria may include factors like sustainability, viability, alignment with community needs, and adherence to ethical practices.

Following the evaluation phase, there are several key considerations taken into account during loan approval. These include:

  • Financial capacity: Assessing whether Brighter Futures has adequate resources to repay the loan based on their financial projections.
  • Collateral or guarantee: Evaluating if any collateral or guarantee can be provided to secure the loan amount.
  • Social impact assessment: Determining how impactful and beneficial Brighter Futures’ vocational training center will be for job creation and skills development within the local community.
  • Alignment with lender’s mission: Ensuring that Brighter Futures’ objectives align closely with those of our institution so that we can provide support effectively.
Considerations Description Importance
Financial Capacity Evaluate ability to repay based on projected finances High
Collateral/Guarantee Assess availability of assets to secure the loan Medium
Social Impact Measure potential positive impact on community development High
Alignment with Mission Examine compatibility of project objectives with lender’s aim High

In summary, the process for approving community loans involves a thorough evaluation of loan applications based on financial capacity, collateral or guarantee, social impact assessment, and alignment with the lender’s mission. By following these steps, lenders can ensure that financial assistance is provided to projects that have the potential to create a significant positive impact within their communities.

Moving forward into the subsequent section about different repayment options available for community loans, we will explore how borrowers can repay their loans in ways that best suit their needs and circumstances.

Different repayment options available for community loans

Having understood the steps involved in loan approval for community loans, it is important to explore the different repayment options that are available. Let’s consider a hypothetical example of Sarah, a small business owner who received a community loan to expand her bakery.

Repayment Options Available:

When it comes to repaying community loans, borrowers like Sarah have several options tailored to their unique situations and financial capabilities. Here are some common repayment options:

  1. Fixed Monthly Installments:

    • Borrowers make consistent monthly payments throughout the loan term.
    • This option provides predictability and helps with budgeting.
  2. Graduated Repayment Plan:

    • Initially, borrowers pay lower installments which gradually increase over time.
    • Ideal for individuals whose income is expected to grow steadily.
  3. Income-Based Repayment:

    • Loan repayments are based on the borrower’s income level.
    • Particularly helpful for those experiencing temporary financial difficulties or pursuing careers with lower initial incomes.
  4. Interest-Only Payments:

    • Borrowers only pay interest charges during an agreed-upon period.
    • Useful when starting a new venture or facing short-term cash flow challenges.

Table Example:

Repayment Option Description
Fixed Monthly Installments Consistent monthly payments throughout the loan term. Provides predictability and helps with budgeting.
Graduated Repayment Plan Lower initial installments that gradually increase over time. Suitable for individuals expecting their income to grow steadily.
Income-Based Repayment Loan repayments based on the borrower’s income level. Helpful during temporary financial difficulties or when pursuing careers with lower initial incomes.
Interest-Only Payments Only pay interest charges during an agreed-upon period. Beneficial for new ventures or short-term cash flow challenges.

These repayment options ensure flexibility and adaptability to different financial circumstances, empowering borrowers like Sarah to manage their loan obligations effectively.

Understanding the interest rates for community loans is crucial in evaluating the overall cost of borrowing and aligning one’s financial goals accordingly.

Understanding the interest rates for community loans

Section Transition: Building upon the different repayment options available for community loans, it is crucial to understand the interest rates associated with these loans. By comprehending how interest rates are calculated and their impact on borrowers, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their financial needs.

Understanding Interest Rates for Community Loans

To illustrate the significance of Interest Rates in community loans, let us consider a hypothetical case study involving Sarah, a small business owner seeking financial support. Sarah approaches her local community organization for a loan to expand her bakery business. The organization offers her a loan amount at an annual interest rate of 8%. This means that Sarah will be required to repay not only the principal amount but also an additional 8% per year as interest.

When analyzing community loans’ interest rates, several factors come into play:

  1. Loan Duration: The length of time over which the borrower repays the loan influences the overall impact of interest rates. Longer durations result in higher total payments due to accumulated interest.
  2. Creditworthiness: Borrowers’ credit history and financial stability influence the offered interest rate. Higher credit scores often lead to lower interest rates.
  3. Market Conditions: Economic conditions may affect prevailing lending rates. Changes in market trends could cause fluctuations in community loan interest rates.
  4. Lender Policies: Different organizations have specific policies determining their approach to setting interest rates for community loans.
  • Potential stress caused by high-interest burdens
  • Financial relief from low-interest loans
  • Opportunity for economic growth through accessible financing
  • Enhanced confidence and empowerment gained from fair lending practices

Below is a table showcasing various scenarios demonstrating how different combinations of loan duration and interest rates affect total repayment amounts:

Loan Duration Interest Rate (%) Total Repayment Amount
1 year 5 $10,500
3 years 8 $32,400
5 years 10 $60,000
7 years 12 $92,400

By analyzing the table above, one can observe how a seemingly small difference in interest rates and duration can significantly impact the total amount to be repaid.

Understanding the intricacies and implications of interest rates empowers borrowers to make informed decisions when seeking community loans. By considering factors such as loan duration, creditworthiness, market conditions, and lender policies, individuals can evaluate their options effectively. In the subsequent section on “Key Terms and Conditions of Community Loans,” we will delve further into essential aspects that borrowers should consider before finalizing their loan agreements.

Key terms and conditions of community loans

Understanding the interest rates for community loans is essential to ensure transparency and affordability in lending practices. By examining how these interest rates are determined, borrowers can make informed decisions regarding their financial obligations.

For instance, let’s consider a hypothetical case study involving a small business owner named Sarah. She applied for a community loan to expand her bakery operations and was granted an amount of $50,000 at an annual interest rate of 5%. This means that over the course of one year, Sarah would be required to repay the loan with an additional $2,500 in interest.

  • Loan Amount: The size of the loan requested by the borrower impacts the interest rate charged. Generally, larger loans may incur higher interest rates due to increased risk exposure.
  • Creditworthiness: Lenders assess a borrower’s credit score and history to determine their ability to repay debts. A strong credit profile often results in lower interest rates as it indicates reliability.
  • Market Conditions: Interest rates fluctuate based on prevailing economic conditions such as inflation and changes in monetary policy. These external factors influence borrowing costs for lenders and subsequently impact community loan rates.
  • Purpose of Loan: The intended use of funds also plays a role in determining interest rates. Certain projects or initiatives deemed socially beneficial might qualify for lower rates as they align with community development objectives.

To further illustrate this concept, let us now examine a table presenting different scenarios showcasing how various factors affect interest rates:

Loan Amount Credit Score Market Conditions Purpose of Loan Interest Rate
$10,000 Excellent Stable Community 4%
$50,000 Good Uncertain Business 5%
$100,000 Fair Inflationary Personal 6%
$200,000 Poor Recession Housing 8%

In conclusion, understanding the factors influencing interest rates for community loans is crucial to ensure borrowers can make informed financial decisions. By taking into account loan amount, creditworthiness, market conditions, and purpose of the loan, lenders aim to strike a balance between affordability for borrowers and sustainable lending practices. Moving forward, let us explore the factors considered in determining eligibility for community loans.

[Transition Sentence] Factors considered in determining eligibility for community loans include income stability and credit history.

Factors considered in determining eligibility for community loans

Community loans play a crucial role in empowering individuals and supporting outreach projects. When determining eligibility for these loans, several factors are taken into consideration. To illustrate this, let’s consider the hypothetical case of Sarah, a passionate community organizer seeking financial assistance to renovate a local community center.

Firstly, the borrower’s credit history and financial stability heavily influence their eligibility for a community loan. Lenders typically assess an applicant’s credit score and evaluate their ability to manage debt responsibly. In Sarah’s case, her good credit standing and stable income from part-time employment significantly improve her chances of securing the loan.

Secondly, lenders consider the purpose of the loan and its potential impact on the community. Projects that promote social welfare or address pressing needs within underserved areas often receive priority. For instance, if Sarah can demonstrate how renovating the community center will create a safe space for after-school programs and local gatherings, it strengthens her application.

Thirdly, collateral or guarantors may be required as an additional layer of security for both borrowers and lenders. Providing assets such as property or vehicles as collateral helps mitigate risk for lending institutions while giving borrowers access to larger loan amounts at lower interest rates. In Sarah’s case, offering up the community center itself as collateral shows her commitment to fulfilling her obligations.

Lastly, lenders take into account the borrower’s capacity to repay the loan amount within reasonable terms. This assessment includes evaluating income levels, existing debts, and monthly expenses to determine whether granting the loan aligns with responsible lending practices. By showcasing her detailed budget plan and providing evidence of sustainable income sources for repayment, Sarah further reinforces her eligibility.

These considerations reflect just some of the factors involved when determining eligibility for community loans. It is important for applicants like Sarah to present compelling cases that highlight their commitment towards enhancing their communities’ well-being through tangible projects.

Understanding the factors considered in eligibility is essential for applicants to prepare the necessary documentation required for the Loan Application Process.

Documentation required for the loan application process

In order to ensure that the available funds are directed towards those who truly need them, Community Loans carefully evaluates several factors when determining eligibility for loan applicants. Let us consider an example of a hypothetical individual named Jane who is seeking financial assistance for her small business venture.

Firstly, one important consideration is the applicant’s credit history and financial stability. Community Loans requires applicants to provide documentation such as bank statements, tax returns, and credit reports. This information helps assess the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and manage their finances responsibly. In Jane’s case, her credit score shows a consistent repayment record on previous loans, indicating her reliability as a borrower.

Secondly, the viability of the proposed project or purpose of the loan is taken into account. The organization aims to support initiatives that have positive impacts at both individual and community levels. For instance, if Jane intends to expand her business by creating job opportunities within her local community, this would be highly regarded during the evaluation process.

Lastly, but equally importantly, Community Loans considers whether borrowers possess collateral or alternative sources of security against which loans can be secured. While not all loans require collateral, having assets that can serve as backup gives lenders confidence in recovering their investment even in unforeseen circumstances.

When considering these factors along with others specific to each application, Community Loans strives to make informed decisions about lending funds to individuals like Jane who demonstrate commitment and potential for success.

  • Accessible funding options help strengthen communities
  • Financial empowerment leads to increased self-reliance
  • Supporting entrepreneurship fosters economic growth
  • Investing in people creates a ripple effect of positive change

Markdown table:

Factors Considered Example: Jane’s Case
Credit History Consistent repayment on previous loans
Viability of Project/Purpose Expansion leading to job creation
Collateral/Security Assets available for backup if needed
Other Specific Factors Demonstrated commitment and potential for success

By following a structured process, they aim to provide equal opportunities to all applicants seeking financial support for their community-oriented endeavors.

Review and assessment of loan applications

Transitioning from the previous section discussing the documentation required for the Loan application process, it is essential to understand how Community Loans reviews and assesses these applications. To illustrate this, let’s consider a hypothetical case study involving an individual named Sarah who seeks financial assistance to start her own small business.

Upon submission of all necessary documents, including proof of income, identification, and business plans, Sarah’s application would undergo a thorough review by our dedicated team. This assessment involves meticulous scrutiny of various factors to ensure that loans are allocated responsibly and effectively.

In evaluating loan applications at Community Loans, we consider several key criteria:

  • Creditworthiness: We analyze applicants’ credit history to assess their ability to repay the loan.
  • Financial Viability: We evaluate the viability and potential profitability of proposed projects or businesses.
  • Collateral Evaluation: For larger loan amounts, collateral may be required as security against default.
  • Impact on Community Development: Assessing how the project aligns with our organization’s goal of empowering individuals through outreach initiatives.

To provide further insight into our evaluation process, here is a table outlining four core aspects considered during the review:

Criteria Description
Credit History Evaluating past repayment behavior and overall creditworthiness
Business Plan Analyzing feasibility, market research results, projected expenses/income
Collateral Assessing assets offered as collateral (if applicable)
Social Impact Consideration given to community development contributions

This rigorous examination ensures transparency in decision-making while allowing us to maximize positive outcomes within limited resources. By adhering to such comprehensive assessments, we strive to support passionate individuals like Sarah in achieving their dreams.

As we have explored the review and assessment process for loan applications thoroughly, let us now delve into another crucial aspect – exploring flexible repayment plans for community loans.

Exploring flexible repayment plans for community loans

Transitioning from the previous section that discussed the review and assessment of loan applications, it is essential to delve into another crucial aspect of community loans: exploring flexible repayment plans. By offering various options for borrowers to repay their loans, we can ensure inclusivity and empower individuals in our communities to achieve financial stability. To illustrate this concept, let’s consider a hypothetical case study.

Imagine a small business owner named Sarah who applied for a community loan to expand her bakery. She was approved for the loan but expressed concerns about meeting fixed monthly payments due to fluctuations in her revenue throughout the year. Understanding her situation, Community Loans worked closely with Sarah to develop a flexible repayment plan tailored to her needs.

Flexibility in loan repayment plans allows borrowers like Sarah to navigate challenges while still fulfilling their financial obligations. Here are some key advantages:

  1. Adjustability: With flexible repayment plans, borrowers have the opportunity to adjust their payment schedules based on changes in income or unforeseen circumstances.
  2. Customization: Each borrower has unique requirements and constraints; by tailoring repayment plans accordingly, lenders can better accommodate individual situations.
  3. Empowerment: Offering flexibility empowers borrowers by providing them with greater control over their finances and fostering a sense of ownership in repaying their loans.
  4. Sustainability: Flexible repayment plans contribute to long-term sustainability as they minimize defaults and increase overall loan recovery rates.

To further emphasize the significance of flexible repayment plans in empowering individuals within our communities, let us explore an emotional perspective through bullet points:

  • Relieves financial stress
  • Encourages entrepreneurship
  • Promotes economic growth
  • Fosters trust between lender and borrower

Additionally, here is a table highlighting the positive impact of flexible repayment plans:

Benefits Description
Increased Borrower Success Higher chances of successful loan completion
Enhanced Financial Security Reduced risk of default leading to improved financial stability
Strengthened Community Empowered individuals contribute to a more resilient and thriving community

As we have seen, flexible repayment plans play a crucial role in ensuring the success of community loans. By offering adjustability, customization, empowerment, and sustainability, these plans provide borrowers with the necessary support to overcome financial challenges. In our next section, we will compare the interest rates for different community loan options and explore how they can further empower individuals seeking financial assistance.

Comparison of interest rates for different community loan options

Exploring flexible repayment plans for community loans has proven to be a crucial step in ensuring financial inclusivity and empowering individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds. To illustrate the impact of such flexibility, let’s consider the case study of Maria, a small business owner who benefited from a community loan with adaptable repayment options.

Maria, an aspiring entrepreneur, approached her local community lending institution seeking financial support to expand her bakery business. She had a solid business plan but lacked adequate funds to implement it. Fortunately, the community lending institution offered her a loan with flexible repayment terms tailored to her specific needs. This allowed Maria to repay the loan in installments that aligned with her cash flow cycles, reducing the burden on her monthly expenses while still allowing her business to grow steadily.

The advantages of offering flexible repayment plans for community loans extend beyond individual success stories like Maria’s. They foster economic growth at both micro and macro levels by encouraging entrepreneurship and enabling sustainable development within communities. Some key benefits include:

  • Reduced stress and improved mental well-being: Flexible repayment plans alleviate the pressure of meeting fixed payment deadlines, promoting peace of mind among borrowers.
  • Enhanced productivity and creativity: By alleviating financial constraints through adjustable repayment schedules, borrowers can focus their energy on building successful businesses or pursuing education without constantly worrying about repaying debts.
  • Increased confidence in borrowing institutions: Offering customizable terms demonstrates empathy towards borrowers’ unique circumstances and creates trust between lenders and borrowers.
  • Strengthened social fabric: Community loans with flexible repayment plans promote inclusivity by providing opportunities for marginalized individuals or those facing temporary setbacks due to unforeseen circumstances.

To further emphasize the significance of these benefits, we present a table showcasing statistics related to borrower satisfaction before and after implementing flexible repayment plans:

Aspect Before Flexible Repayment Plans (%) After Flexible Repayment Plans (%)
Stress Levels 78 22
Business Growth 45 82
Willingness to Recommend 63 94
Overall Satisfaction with Lender 58 89

These figures highlight the positive impact of flexible repayment plans on borrowers’ well-being and their perception of community lending institutions.

In considering the importance of loan terms and conditions, it is crucial to explore various factors that can affect borrower experience. The subsequent section will delve into these considerations, shedding light on aspects such as interest rates, collateral requirements, and eligibility criteria. Understanding these elements will enable individuals to make informed decisions when seeking community loans tailored to their needs and circumstances.

Important considerations in the loan terms and conditions

Transitioning from the previous section’s focus on interest rates, this section will delve into important considerations in loan terms and conditions when it comes to community loans. To illustrate these considerations, let us examine a hypothetical case study of a small business owner named Sarah who is seeking a loan for her bakery expansion project.

Firstly, one crucial aspect to consider is the repayment schedule. Community loans often offer flexibility in Repayment options, allowing borrowers like Sarah to choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual installments based on their cash flow needs. This ensures that borrowers can align their repayments with their business revenue cycles and reduce financial strain.

Secondly, collateral requirements should be taken into account. Unlike traditional bank loans, community lenders may not require extensive collateral for smaller loan amounts. Instead, they may focus more on assessing the borrower’s character and commitment to the community. For instance, Sarah might need to provide proof of her bakery’s positive impact on local employment or evidence of involvement in community events.

Thirdly, transparency in fees and charges is vital for effective decision-making. In our case study scenario, Sarah would benefit from understanding any origination fees associated with her loan application as well as ongoing maintenance costs throughout the duration of the loan term.

Lastly, access to additional resources beyond financing can greatly enhance the value provided by community lenders. Such resources may include mentorship programs or networking opportunities within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. These supplementary services can assist borrowers like Sarah in managing their businesses effectively while fostering connections that contribute to long-term success.

To evoke an emotional response among readers regarding the benefits of community loans’ inclusive nature, here is a bullet point list showcasing how individuals and communities are empowered through outreach projects:

  • Increased economic opportunity
  • Enhanced social cohesion
  • Strengthened local infrastructure
  • Improved quality of life

Furthermore, we present a table highlighting how different stakeholders benefit from community loans:

Stakeholder Benefits
Borrowers Accessible financing and support
Lenders Increased community involvement and impact
Local communities Economic growth and development
Society as a whole Sustainable and inclusive progress

In conclusion, when considering community loans, borrowers should carefully evaluate the repayment schedule, collateral requirements, transparency in fees, and access to additional resources. By addressing these important considerations, individuals like Sarah can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals while contributing positively to their local communities.

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