In addition to cleaning up a branch over the Labor Day Weekend that had been destroyed by three feet of rain dumped by Tropical Storm Harvey, the $227 million Energy Capital Credit Union is also providing its employees with childcare services and free lunches as the city of Houston and communities throughout southeastern Texas continue massive recovery efforts.

“To assist staff we have set up childcare in the main office as schools are closed until 9/11 and many childcare facilities (are closed),” Energy Capital CU President/CEO Randall Dixon, wrote in an email on Saturday. “Also many restaurants are closed so we have provided lunch for staff during the week. “

As of last Friday, eight Energy Capital CU employees reported their homes were damaged by the storm. Many employees said their homes were flooded by than foot of water ruining carpets, furniture, and walls. Some employees also lost their cars and many other personal items.

At least one employee reported the water flooded her home up to its roof. Her family lost everything, including the family's car.

“ECCU will be providing $1,000 per employee for assistance along with one week of PTO. Many do not have insurance and could use additional assistance if possible,” Dixon said.

ECCU's north branch was totally destroyed by about three feet of water and will be closed for at least three months.

“We spent the last few days removing carpet, furniture, etc. to prevent mold,” Dixon said. “We pretty much lost everything. We are meeting with adjusters on Tuesday. Employees have been redeployed to other branches in the interim. Our corporate branch and Exxon Mobil Campus branches were not impacted and became fully operational last Thursday. We have also provided multiple ways to assist members.”

In addition, several employees are helping each other to pull out carpet furniture and try to prevent mold, Dixon said.

“However many (employees) are displaced living with family and hotels, shelters until they can move back to their homes,” Dixon wrote. “So housing assistance is also needed. We have set up an employee assistance fund if the foundation or others would like to donate.”

The National Credit Union Foundation reported last Thursday that more than $500,000 has been contributed from the credit union community. To donate, visit cuaid.coop.

More resources are going to be needed as the Foundation noted that there are approximately 600 credit union branches and roughly 6,000 employees and volunteers that have been affected by the storm.

The Cornerstone Credit Union League in Plano, Texas on Tuesday listed about 57 reported credit union closures in Houston and throughout southeastern counties of the state. That's slightly down from the 65 reported credit union closures that the league listed on Friday.

CUNA Mutual Group reported last week that it has processed 23 credit union claims but none was a catastrophic claim. CMG adjusters are in Texas meeting with credit unions.

Instant Insights /

Houston Credit Union Describes Recovery Efforts

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