In Hurricane Idalia’s wake, LSCU and SECUF support impacted credit unions
TALLAHASSEE, FL (August 31, 2023) — The League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU) and the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation (SECUF) has leapt into action to support credit unions across Florida and Georgia impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
In the days before Idalia’s arrival, LSCU began regular communication with credit unions in the projected path of the growing storm, offering disaster preparedness resources and tips, storm-tracking tools, and offers of assistance for after the storm passed. More than 2,000 credit union branches and offices were impacted by the massive storm’s effects, though thankfully the vast majority escaped mostly unscathed.
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.
“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,” shared Samantha Beeler, President of LSCU. “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.”
SECUF has established disaster relief funds for credit union staff and volunteers who require further assistance. These funds encompass necessities like food, water, shelter, and more, providing support for both immediate and long-term recovery.
“The Southeastern Credit Union Foundation has a history of supporting credit unions, their dedicated staff, and volunteers during times of need,” said Bobbi Grady, Director of the Foundation. “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.”
In keeping with the credit union movement’s mantra of people helping people, LSCU and SECUF are honored to support our credit unions in their hours of need. We invite them to reach out to us for any guidance or assistance they may require so they can get back to doing what they do best – serving their communities. As we prepare for opening the grant portal for impacted credit unions tomorrow, LSCU and SECUF appreciate the committed support of credit unions and community members alike. Anyone interested in helping can make donations to our disaster relief efforts here.
About League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU)
The League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates represents nearly 300 credit unions throughout Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. It has a combined total of almost $200 billion in assets and 12.4 million members. LSCU provides advocacy, compliance services, education and training, cooperative initiatives, and communications. For more information, visit www.lscu.coop. Follow LSCU on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
ABOUT THE SOUTHEASTERN CREDIT UNION FOUNDATION
The Southeastern Credit Union Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the progressive professional development of credit union staff and volunteers, financial capability programs for all age groups, and the creation of valuable resources for our member credit unions and the communities they serve. The SECUF mission is to support economic growth by promoting financial wellness, sparking collaborative community initiatives, and providing disaster preparedness and relief to credit unions.
