Credit Unions Support Local Businesses, Nonprofits Through Difficult Times
Posted by Ben Shuey on May 21, 2020
The COVID-19 health crisis continues to disrupt daily life across the world, but as times get tougher, Northwest credit unions work harder to provide steadfast support for their communities. It’s the Credit Union Difference!
In Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, credit unions find creative ways to keep local businesses, charities, and other organizations going strong. Read more about how credit unions are serving their members and employees during COVID-19 by visiting the Coronavirus Preparation & Response Resources page.
- Westmark Credit Union – Idaho Falls, Idaho
In an effort to support local restaurants amid a stay–at–home order, Westmark Credit Union hosted a giveaway on its Facebook page March 23, asking members to comment on their favorite local joints for a chance to win a free lunch delivery. Additionally, the credit union purchased lunch from local restaurants for all of its employees.“We would like to nominate all businesses who are able to please join us in our effort to keep these local restaurants afloat during this global pandemic,” Westmark said on its Facebook page.
- OnPoint Community Credit Union – Portland
OnPoint donated $100,000 to Meals on Wheels to ensure vulnerable seniors and homebound individuals have access to meals and necessities during the COVID-19 crisis. “OnPoint’s purpose is to build strong communities by supporting financial growth and well-being, one person at a time. We are proud to build our partnership with Meals on Wheels People to help ensure no one has to worry about their next meal throughout this difficult time,” OnPoint President and CEO, Rob Stuart, told the Beaverton Valley Times.
- Unitus Community Credit Union – Portland
Unitus gave $10,000 to local nonprofits Good Neighbor Center, Sunshine Division, SnowCap Community Charities, and Clackamas Service Center to provide support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the credit union partnered with local salad shop, Crisp, to assemble and deliver 160 fresh salads to hospital heroes at Randall’s Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel.“We’re incredibly thankful for all of the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff working on the front lines for all of us to provide treatments every day, and especially in times of emergency,” said Steve Stapp, Unitus President and CEO, in a press release. “This was a small way we could give back to those putting their lives at risk to care for our most vulnerable neighbors.”
- WECU – Bellingham, Washington
WECU has pledged to donate $30,000 to three local foundations to meet the needs of vulnerable populations during COVID-19. The Chuckanut Health Foundation, United Way of Whatcom County, and the Whatcom Community Foundation will each receive $10,000.“Our hearts and minds go out to those impacted by the coronavirus, especially vulnerable populations, such as low-income families and seniors,” said Jennifer Kutcher, President and CEO of WECU in a press release last week. “Each of these organizations have tremendous track records of serving the community and helping those in need.”
- Horizon Credit Union – Spokane Valley, Washington
Horizon recently bumped up its annual donations to local charities, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kootenai Country and Columbia Basin and Blessings Under the Bridge, to support them during this time of need. Blessings Under the Bridge personally thanked Horizon on its Facebook page, saying, “Thank you so much to Horizon Credit Union for bumping up their annual support by giving us an extra donation during these challenging times. We will use this donation to keep our mission moving forward and serving those in need! We are so grateful for the support right now and appreciate all of the generous support from our community.”
Want to share ways your credit union is providing relief during COVID-19? Email us or submit your story to our Member News page!
Posted in Community Impact.
