WICHITA, Kan. – To find out why some area minorities may not be using credit unions and banks, Catholic Family Federal Credit Union has produced an online survey to get answers.

The $21 million credit union has teamed up with the Wichita State University's Center for Economic Development and Business Research to produce a 15-minute online survey that asks a number of questions on personal finance habits. Some of the questions ask the race and religion of the survey taker and seek feedback on suggested areas for branch placement. The survey also triggers additional questions if the taker does not bank anywhere by asking, "How do you manage payments such as rent, utilities or car insurance?" and "How would you pay for a car purchase?".

Marilyn Wells, CFFCU president, said there is a concern about how people are handling their finances and credit unions are eager to help people with money management. The aim is to take the survey's findings and develop programs targeted at minorities to help with these skills, said Anne Gallagher, senior research associate at WSU's research center.

Hispanics, probably more than any other minority group in the area, do not use credit unions or banks, community leaders say. Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian residents here shy away from financial institutions because they are used to dealing with cash and the language barrier may be an impediment.

Anyone, not just members of the credit union, can take the survey at www.cffcu.com or use a computer provided in CFFCU's lobby. Wells said they hope to have a number of responses over the next few weeks.

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