For the credit union community, the impact of disasters—whether a pandemic, fires, floods, earthquakes, or civil unrest—can feel deeply personal. The Leagues are committed to supporting credit union employees and volunteers as they recover from natural disasters, providing assistance during challenging times. For help or questions, contact us at league@ccul.org.
Wildfire Assistance
Our hearts are with California, especially those affected in Los Angeles County, as wildfires continue to impact the region. In light of these devastating events, we want to remind everyone that CUAid disaster grants are available to assist credit union employees and board members with immediate financial relief needs. These grants can provide crucial support during such challenging times.
Grants
Grants are available for credit union employees and board members to assist with immediate disaster relief needs.
CLICK HERE for the Emergency Disaster Relief Grant Application‘State of Emergency’ Issued for Credit Unions
On January 10, 2025, California Gov. Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to the “extraordinary situation” of extreme wildfires and windstorms, where several fires have rapidly spread, threatened lives, destroyed homes and critical infrastructure, and forced the evacuation of thousands of residents.
The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) has been authorized to allow state‐chartered credit unions and banks to close any or all of their offices/locations in affected areas until the DFPI commissioner determines the extraordinary situation has ended, or until officers of the credit union or bank determine that one or more locations should reopen.
SBA Disaster Relief Loans
Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides disaster relief loans under certain conditions. These loans typically offer low-interest rates and long repayment terms:
To apply, you must be in a declared disaster area, as well as meet other eligibility criteria.
The SBA’s Los Angeles District office locations can be found here. It serves the counties of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. The phone number is 213-634-3855.
Credit unions looking to support their fellow members and communities affected by wildfires can consider donating to the American Red Cross. Their donation site is actively assisting victims in fire-impacted areas.
CA Storm: Impact Assessment Amid Severe Weather
As we monitor severe weather conditions across California, we understand the potential challenges faced by credit unions. If your credit union has experienced or anticipates any site damage or staff evacuations due to rain, flooding, windstorms or landslides, please immediately email Joe Keller, vice president of membership and credit union solutions. Your prompt response with brief details on the impact on your operations will greatly assist us in coordinating support and resources. We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to assess the local situation and prepare to provide assistance to credit unions statewide. Thank you for your commitment to ensuring the resilience of our credit union community in the face of these challenges.
Please see below for sample content you may wish to add to your Emergency Preparedness Plan.
The National Credit Union Foundation’s CUAid program is designed to harness the collective generosity of the movement to provide grant assistance and disaster relief to the credit union movement. For questions regarding the CUAid program, please contact the Foundation at ncuf@ncuf.coop.
Checks can be payable to NCUF and mailed to lockbox address.
National Credit Union Foundation
RE: CU Aid
P.O. Box 78880
Milwaukee, WI 53278-0880
Financial assistance is available for individuals in Los Angeles County who have been impacted by wildfires.
Click here to access the Silvur California Wildfires Healthcare & Tax Updates White Paper
The City and County are working closely with the state and FEMA to open Disaster Recovery Centers for Angelenos impacted by the fires.
Essential resources and information you can access immediately.
L.A. Foodbank Resources & Volunteer Opportunites
