CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa. — Though 20 Iowa credit unions remain closed due to this week's devastating floods, the largest CU, Collins Community, in this hard-hit city whose downtown is underwater, said Friday it is bearing up well as it tries to restore power and phone service to branches while aiding stricken employees and members.

"It's been absolutely devastating but we are fortunate to have such a dedicated staff," said Richard Benhart, president/CEO of the $470 Collins Community which reported five of its seven branches open.

Collins has already allowed Iowa Community CU of Waterloo to set up a makeshift operation in one of Collins' Cedar Rapids branches "and we're doing all we can to help them out," said Benhart. The Waterloo CU had maintained a Cedar Rapids branch which was closed by floodwaters from the Cedar River, expected to crest today at 32 feet above flood stage.