Raritan Bay FCU ATM fees to benefit charities

SAYREVILLE, N.J. - Raritan Bay Federal Credit Union has non-members feeling good about paying ATM surcharges. Out of each 90 cent fee collected, Raritan Bay FCU donates ten cents to charitable and non profit organizations located in the communities served by the credit union. "I looked at the different initiatives of CUNA's community involvement and realized this would be a good , painless way to give something back to the community," said Raritan Bay FCU President and CEO Thomas J. O'Shea. "We believe that we are the first financial institution in the country to tie ATM use to charitable giving." Only consumers who use a non-Raritan Bay FCU ATM card at the credit union's ATMs in Sayreville, South River and South Amboy, New Jersey will be assessed the 90 cent surcharge. According to O'Shea, the initial local response has been very positive. Everyone in the community, from local legislators to members, has been offering suggestions as to which charities should benefit. Any locally oriented group is being considered, ranging from First Aid Squad and DARE to schools and libraries. The final decision will rest with the board. "This donation program is a no-brainer," said O'Shea. "At no cost, we can support local charities and involve the community. It just has that credit union flavor." RBFCU has $48.8 million in assets and serves over 11,000 members. -mbourjolly@cutimes.com