In Idalia’s Aftermath, LSCU Teams Hit the Road to Help CUs Recover
The Southeastern CU Foundation has established disaster relief funds for credit union staff and volunteers.
On Thursday morning, teams from the League of Southeastern Credit Unions and Affiliates (LSCU) and the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation (SECUF) loaded up trucks full of generators to help those credit unions across Florida and Georgia that have been impacted by the destructive Hurricane Idalia that slammed across the region this week.
According to LSCU, officials there began communicating with credit unions in the days leading up to the storm to offer disaster preparedness resources and storm-tracking tools. Maybe even more importantly, LSCU also offered assistance to their credit unions after the storm passed.
A statement from LSCU Thursday afternoon said, “Today, less than 24 hours after the storm crashed through the region, three caravans of LSCU team members began delivering dozens of generators to impacted credit unions and their staff in Perry and Madison in Florida and in the Valdosta and Savannah metro areas in Georgia.”
LSCU President Samantha Beeler said, “In the face of adversity brought by Hurricane Idalia, the strength of our credit union community shines brighter than ever. This morning, the first wave of LSCU team members traveled to impacted credit unions to ensure they have the support and resources needed to begin their recovery and repairs. As we mobilized the Southeast Disaster Coordinating Council this week, it is clear the credit union community is united in support of one another’s recovery efforts. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re committed to standing by your side as you rebuild and restore.”
It’s unclear how many credit union branches may have suffered damage during the hurricane. But, according to a statement from the $13.6 billion VyStar Credit Union late Wednesday, its Florida branches in Perry, Steinhatchee and Lake City will be closed until further notice.
As recovery efforts are just beginning, SECUF has established disaster relief funds for credit union staff and volunteers who might need help. The funds can be used for necessities such as food, water and shelter.
“The Southeastern Credit Union Foundation has a history of supporting credit unions, their dedicated staff and volunteers during times of need,” Bobbi Grady, director of the Foundation, said. “Through our past efforts, we’ve provided generators, vital everyday necessities and supplies, and monetary grants to ensure the well-being of those affected by disasters. This is a tangible step forward in our ongoing mission to aid credit unions and their communities on their journey to recovery.”
Anyone wishing to make donations to the LSCU and SECUF hurricane relief effort can do so here.