TCUF Ready to Assist CU Staff Affected by Wildfires
 
While Tropical Storm Lee drenched Southeast Louisiana with up to 15 inches of rain over the weekend, the low pressure system whipped up strong northwesterly winds across Texas that are blamed for the rapid spread of numerous wildfires burning tens of thousands of acres.
 
Central Texas has been hard hit with fires raging in Bastrop, Hays, Travis and Williamson counties that have reportedly scorched some 40,000 acres and destroyed hundreds of homes. Many more hundreds of properties have been damaged or threatened by the blazes.
 
TCUL has been in contact with credit unions in the affected areas. Based on preliminary reports, the credit unions in the area are safe.  At least one credit union has reported that its branch in the affected area is limiting its hours of operation.  While the credit unions have not experienced any physical damage, there have been reports that some members, as well as credit union staff, have been affected.  TCUL is engaged in ongoing communications with these credit unions to determine the extent of damage that the wildfires have caused to the homes of these members and staff.
 
The Texas Credit Union Foundation (TCUF) is poised to assist credit union staff affected by natural disaster.  Phase one emergency grants are provided to credit union employees to assist with immediate disaster relief needs, such as out of pocket costs that may result from being evacuated.  These grants are up to $500 per credit union employee.  The intent of these grants is to help stabilize the credit union employee’s individual situation so they can return to work.
 
Questions?
Please contact the Texas Credit Union Foundation staff at 1-800-953-8283 (TCUF) if you have questions regarding disaster grant eligibility or the TCUF disaster relief program.