TALLAHASSEE, Fla.–The number of branch closures in Southwestern Florida due to Hurricane Ian continues to shrink, but more than 350 credit unions and CU employees had filed grant applications with the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation as of late last week.
According to the League of Southeastern Credit Unions, more than $270,000 has been raised to date to provide relief to those affected by the devastating storm, and other aid continues to be provided by the league, its foundation and credit unions themselves.
“While we know financial assistance and the lending of recovery equipment has been a tremendous help in getting power restored and families back on their feet, additional resources will be needed in order to assist with long-term needs for those rebuilding, relocating, or replacing lost items such as vehicles,” the league said.
Entering Phase II
A spokesperson for LSCU told CUToday.info the league and foundation have now entered phase II of the relief efforts, reflecting that power has mostly been restored and the focus is on collecting more essential daily living items, such as diapers, water, food, batteries, etc.
“Additionally, we are preparing to coordinate volunteer efforts to assist with cleanup efforts in impacted areas during the week of International Credit Union Day,” the league reported.
Those wishing to volunteer and sign up can contact communication@lscu.coop.
As of Friday, the league reported it had made a fifth round of “critical needs deliveries” to the
Cape Coral and Sarasota areas
Suncoast CU Donates $600,000 to Hurricane Ian Relief
Separately, Tampa-based Suncoast Credit Union said it is donating $600,000 to provide support and relief to those impacted by Hurricane Ian.
Volunteer Florida will receive $500,000 and the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools will receive $100,000. Suncoast Credit Union has a number of branches in areas of the state hit by the hurricane.
According to Suncoast, Volunteer Florida will administer the $500,000 gift as the state’s lead agency for volunteers and donations before, during, and after natural disasters. The funds will be disbursed to help provide funding and resources to over 85 organizations for Emergency Management purposes, going to those with the greatest need.
The School District of Lee County will use the $100,000 donation to ensure students and teachers basic needs are met. Funds will cover immediate needs, including clothing, hygiene products, bedding, and transportation assistance, Suncoast added.
‘Moral Obligation’
“We believe we have a moral obligation to help others when we are able to do so,” said Kevin Johnson, president & CEO, Suncoast Credit Union. “The impact of Hurricane Ian is tragic. Our only goal for these funds is to help those with the greatest of needs in order to rebuild communities impacted by Ian. We believe that by working together, we can all do our part to assist struggling Floridians persevere through these times.”
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