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A brand-new initiative has been launched at Saco Valley CU with a goal of uplifting members facing hardships. Through this effort, known as “Members Helping Members,” the credit union has set up tables stocked with non-perishable food items and toiletries in each of their branch locations where members can take what they need or leave items for others.
The credit union recognizes that times can be challenging, especially around the holidays when families experience increased financial pressure. This year, with the added government shutdown and reduction in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, they noticed higher demand across their communities at food pantries—sparking the Members Helping Members concept, which creates an in-branch way to help members directly.
Employees of the credit union came together to organize and set up tables in every branch, ensuring each one is welcoming, accessible, and stocked for members. The credit union initially purchased items for the tables and included signage letting visitors know they could take items if needed or leave things behind for neighbors in need. Saco Valley CU also placed some items in their lobby vestibules to reduce any concerns around members not wanting to be seen taking things they need, allowing them to easily grab something on their way out of the lobby—not in direct sight of others inside.
“This fall has been particularly challenging for members for a variety of reasons, from the government shut down to the reduction in SNAP benefits, and hunger should be the last thing they need to worry about,” shared Annette Merrill, Branch Manager in Saco. “We have seen organizations throughout our communities come together when times get tough, and this is just one way that Saco Valley CU is trying to give back.”
Members Helping Members aims to provide relief and support for members during the holidays, though there is no end date in sight for this effort; the tables will remain available for the foreseeable future.
Saco Valley CU encouraged other credit unions hoping to support their communities in similar ways to look for opportunities to make a direct impact. They noted that “simple efforts like setting up a donation table, sponsoring a family, or volunteering time can make a big difference for your neighbors.”