GARDNER, Mass. – GFA Federal Credit Union has taken a leading role in the community to help the Red Cross in collecting both items and funds for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. "The Red Cross was only able to accept cash donations due to the logistical problems of transportation. But we knew that not everyone is able to give monetarily. And in times of crisis, such as that, it's psychologically and emotionally important to feel a sense of contribution," said GFA FCU Pearson Branch Manager Jennifer LeClair. "That is why we accepted any contribution, no matter what form or how small. We didn't know how we'd get the items down to the Gulf, but we were committed to finding a way." To help deliver items a member offered space in two 18-wheeler trucks that were heading to Mississippi. He came by on several occasions to pick up the donations. In addition, Castine Moving and Storage also accepted a load of donations from GFA while they were collecting directly from the community. "We're thrilled to be a secure and trusted local drop point for those who want to contribute to any cause; whether it was for September 11th, the hurricane relief fund, or our annual food and toy drives," said LeClair. In total GFA FCU collected over $14,700 and donated several truckloads of items.