GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Michigan Credit Union League and the St. Lucia Credit Union Co-Operative League penned the latest World Council of Credit Unions international partnership at the MCUL's 2008 annual convention and exposition.
WOCCU's 29th international partnership will help support the organization's technical assistance project in St. Lucia, one designed to shore up the country's credit unions so they can provide stronger support to the island's farmers. St. Lucia's growing tourist industry has created a new demand for produce, primarily bananas; however, many local farmers lack the resources needed to enter the market.
WOCCU plans to ask for MCUL assistance in conducting market studies to determine the quality and capabilities of St. Lucia credit unions' agricultural lending programs to support those efforts, said Matt Garcia, a WOCCU program manager.
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"Helping island farmers become self-sufficient is vital to their survival in a rapidly changing island economy," Garcia said. "Thanks to the Michigan League's generous involvement, we'll be better able to accomplish that goal."
Victor Miguel Corro, WOCCU international partnerships manager, said he hopes the partnership also allows St. Lucia credit unions to gain a better understanding of mergers, new marketing strategies and updated products and services.
An island nation approximately 28 miles long and 13 miles wide, St. Lucia is home to 15 credit unions. Approximately 150,000 people call St. Lucia their full-time home, with one-third of the population belonging to a credit union.
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