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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced additional enhancements to its Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) program, effective November 7, 2024. The changes aim to broaden educational opportunities for church members by expanding the range of schools and programs available and offering more financial options to make loans more affordable.
The PEF, which originally covered tuition, fees, and books, will now include other education-related expenses. This expanded coverage is designed to assist more members in acquiring education and high-demand skills.
Blaine R. Maxfield, managing director of the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, expressed enthusiasm about the program's improvements. "We’re excited about these changes to the Perpetual Education Fund and the greater opportunities for education it will help provide," he stated. "As members strive to gain education, they become more self-reliant and grow in their capacity to care for those in need."
Since its inception by Church President Gordon B. Hinckley in 2001, the PEF has supported approximately 113,000 members across over 80 countries in pursuing employment through education.
Suany Pacheco from Guatemala shared her experience with the program. Initially finding education financially out of reach, she described learning about PEF as a turning point: “It was like a blessing...a hope that made my heart feel and confirm that Heavenly Father was listening to me.” After receiving a loan through her bishop, she completed her studies and now works as a traffic judge.
Similarly, Gideon Owusu Prempeh from Ghana utilized PEF support to earn his degree and pursue his goal of working in medicine. He remarked on the impact of the fund: “I am grateful to the Lord and the Church for instituting the Perpetual Education Fund.”
The PEF is available to church members aged 18 and older in approved countries. More information can be found at PEF.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
