Troops Remain Top of Mind, Hearts at Credit Unions

PALM BEACH, Fla.- While the war in Iraq becomes more of a rebuilding effort, credit unions have not forgotten those soldiers that remain. Here is a look at how credit unions are supporting the troops: The Lake Charles Credit Union Chapter recently sent a little piece of home to 150 military men and women, including 75 from the Lake Charles area, serving overseas. Included in the care packages, put together as part of “Operation Support,” were items such as mints, candy, coffee, stationary, tape, and tissues, all donated by credit union members. A golden dollar and a card from the Chapter that told the recipients that the area credit unions thanked them for their service and that they “Are Worth More Than Gold!” was also included in the package. Employees of the Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union also sent packages to family members of staff serving in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Korea. A total of 70 packages that included toiletries, snacks and candy were prepared and sent. The APGFCU Community Involvement Committee, which is made up of board members and volunteers, covered the mailing costs for the packages. Anheuser-Busch Employees’ Credit Union has recently raised $1,652, which will also be used to purchase care packages for members of the U.S. military through Operation USO Care Package. ABECU raised $826 in employee contributions from their “Red, White & Blue Jeans Day.” Employees who wore a patriotic shirt and blue jeans to work were asked to donate $5, which was matched by credit union management. In addition, through Memorial Day, ABECU will sell paper flags for donations of $1 or more at each of its 22 nationwide branch locations. The money raised from this fundraiser will also go toward the purchase of military care packages. OmniAmerican Credit Union has joined forces with Arlington Navy Mother’s Club #984 to accept donations to aid those deployed from the DFW area. To kickoff the effort OmniAmerican has donated $10,000 toward “Operation Care Package”. The account will accept donations from both at home and overseas. First Flight Credit Union has taken the lead in chairing the committee behind Project Care, which is dedicated to assessing and meeting the needs of families left behind. Requested items include stamps, phone cards for calling family members and newborn or baby layette items. In addition, cash donations received will be used for providing extended day care at licensed area facilities for families. Langley Federal Credit Union showed its support by sponsoring a radio remote to benefit the USO of Hampton Roads. The area’s top rated radio morning show, Chuck and Jenna from 94.9 The Point broadcast live from the credit union headquarters and helped raise hundreds of dollars for the USO. Wright-Patt Credit Union will provide free Internet access to members of the community who have loved ones overseas. Seven Internet-linked computers at the WPCU Gantt Financial Center will help family members stay connected via email. [email protected]