African-American CU Coalition Sends Support to California Fire Victims

ST. LOUIS – California credit unions still struggling with the aftermath of killer wildfires have another donation on the way to help pick up the pieces. The African-American Credit Union Coalition recently sent $1,000 to the California Credit Union League Disaster Relief Fund, set up to assist credit union staff, volunteers, and members who have suffered losses due to the wildfires that have ravaged four Southern California counties. “We needed to get involved because we are all credit union people who still believe that the philosophy of people helping people is the basis of this great movement,” said Helen Godfrey, AACUC chairwoman. “Our donation may not solve all of the issues these distressed credit unions are facing but our gesture may give them encouragement knowing that we are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.” Five employees of Arrowhead Credit Union in San Bernardino, at least five members of Norton Community Credit Union in San Bernardino, and at least four members of USA Federal Credit Union in San Diego have lost their homes, according to the California Credit Union League. Numerous others have been forced to evacuate. State officials say the fires have killed more than 20 people, destroyed at least 3,500 homes and burned more than 750,000 acres over four counties.