JOHN DAY, Ore.–Old West Credit Union here is offering a special loan fund to members who have been affected by the ongoing wildfires in eastern Oregon, and is also accepting donations to a relief fund.
In a letter to the credit union’s membership posted on its website, Old West CU CEO Ken Olson said the loan fund is to “cover such things as temporary living, insurance deductibles, etc. The loan will have delayed payments, a subsidized interest rate, and more relaxed underwriting criteria. Also if you have a loan with us now we can arrange skip-payments or other accommodations you might need.”
The credit union said it is working with county officials to set up the relief fund and to ensure that any money collected goes “directly into the hands of the victims.”
In his letter Olson cautions members, “Please, please be very careful with responding to and donating to unknown individuals or organizations. It's not our desire to compete with any legitimate aid organization, only to provide an option for effective local donations and accountability.”
Old West is also offering various sundry items, including flashlight batteries and toothpaste, at its branches.