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From left to right: Kayleigh Ogden, Asset Quality Specialist at Community CU and Jim Grimmel of Grimmel’s Auto Service.
Last year, Community CU was approved for its first Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the City of Lewiston. Nearly $15,000 was allocated to the credit union for an emergency fund program to help community members respond to unexpected situations.
Working with its existing membership and through referrals from local partners, the credit union’s program provided one-time emergency grants. These grants were matched with a voluntary credit builder/savings loan to help individuals prepare for their next emergency.
Kayleigh Ogden, Asset Quality Specialist at Community CU, was the employee who primarily worked with members in approving and disbursing emergency funds through the program.
“I was very lucky to have been able to work so closely with our community on granting them aid to help them with emergency costs,” said Ogden. “We were able to help 29 families heat their homes, restore electricity, and repair their vehicles. This help made such a difference and seeing the worry leave their faces upon receiving the grant money is one of the most rewarding experiences. I am thankful to have been a part of.”
This CDBG program with the City of Lewiston also allowed the credit union to strengthen its relationships with local businesses like Grimmel’s Auto Service. Many grant recipients were in need of emergency funds to repair their automobiles and having a local partner to refer them to for quality work was beneficial.
Community CU plans to apply for additional CDBG opportunities in the future. The credit union is eligible for this type of funding because it became a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in 2020. CDFIs promote economic revitalization and community development in low income communities. To learn more about CDFI certification, visit: https://www.cdfifund.gov/.