Credit unions as financial first responders for members and employees
When a hurricane hits the East Coast, when wildfires consume the West Coast, or when tornadoes sweep across the Midwest, it seems to always be credit unions who show up as financial first responders.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact last Fall on Brunswick, Ga., and surrounding areas, Marshland Credit Union and its members found an indispensable ally in the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation (SECUF) and The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates (The League), formerly called League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU).
The league's swift assistance enabled the credit union to resume operations promptly, providing much-needed financial services to a community grappling with the storm's aftermath.
Empowering employees to serve
Many staff members live in rural areas where power restoration was delayed, impacting not only electricity but also access to water due to reliance on well systems. The League transported and provided 48 portable generators, along with five-gallon gasoline containers and extension cords, to Marshland employees who were without power. "We would not have been able to open our branches staff-wise had it not been for The League and their generosity of these generators that have been able to help our staff get back to normal," said Mary Jenrette, president and CEO of Marshland Credit Union, in the immediate aftermath of the storm. "They never said no to me. Their support was so overwhelming to me that I'm trying not to get emotional."
Despite personal challenges - including damaged properties and lack of basic utilities - Marshland's employees were eager to return to work. Their dedication ensured that members had access to essential financial services during a critical time.
"I really am so proud of my staff because no one said, 'I can't be there.' They were, 'Let me be there,'" Jenrette noted. "We had staff come out (to pick up) these generators, lift them out of the truck and put them into their peers' cars. The teamwork around it was moving to watch them just pitching in together."
The League's rapid response proved vital
Hurricane Helene made landfall on September 26 as a Category 4 storm with winds as fast as 140 mph in Florida's Big Bend region before moving northward into Georgia. The storm caused widespread power outages and downed trees in the Brunswick area, with wind gusts reaching up to 78 mph locally. More than 38,000 of Georgia Power's 45,000 customers in Glynn County were without power as of the afternoon following the storm, and over 729,000 customers were affected statewide.
Anticipating the storm's impact, The League and SECUF had been preparing for days. They gathered critical resources and, as soon as conditions allowed, began delivering relief to affected credit unions, their staff, and communities.
"We are deeply moved by the resilience and passion shown by Marshland Credit Union's team during such a difficult time," said Samantha Beeler, president of The League.
"Their determination to be there for their members, despite facing their own personal hardships, speaks volumes about the heart and spirit of our credit union community. It's our privilege to provide resources and support that help play a role in their recovery efforts. Seeing the way everyone came together reinforces why we do what we do - to ensure our credit unions can continue to be a lifeline for their communities when they're needed most."
The response to Hurricane Helene exemplifies the cooperative ethos of credit unions and their pivotal role in supporting both employees and members during times of crisis. Through the unwavering support of The League and SECUF, Marshland Credit Union not only overcame operational challenges but also strengthened its commitment to the community it serves.
Meeting members' immediate needs for the long-term
When Marshland Credit Union reopened the Monday following landfall, it faced one of its busiest days on record. Members lined up to access funds necessary for repairs and daily living expenses.
"Monday was chaotic to say the least, but chaotic in a good way, because our community just came together in such a great way as well," Jenrette said. "Our members were very patient with the line and very kind to our staff and appreciative that we were here."
To further support those affected by the hurricane, Marshland Credit Union launched a Hurricane Helene Relief Program. This initiative allows members to skip loan payments without fees, separate from the usual December skip-a-pay option, easing financial burdens as they recover from the storm.
Looking ahead with gratitude and resolve
Deeply moved by the assistance received, Marshland Credit Union is committed to paying it forward. The credit union is establishing a foundation to provide grants and additional support to members and the community.
For more on credit unions stepping up as financial first responders:
How First Commerce Credit Union came to the aid of members post-hurricane