First Commerce Credit Union becomes a beacon of hope after Hurricane Helene
When Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm on the Florida coast near Tallahassee on September 26, it unleashed devastation across North Florida and South Georgia – not to mention areas further north. With winds reaching 140 mph and extensive flooding, communities were left without power, resources and essential services.
Amid this crisis, Tallahassee, Fla.-based First Commerce Credit Union – located near where the hurricane came ashore – transcended its role as a financial institution to become a cornerstone of community support. They provided critical aid not only to members but to anyone in need.
A community-centered response
Bill Perry, the former owner and president of The Citizens Bank in Nashville, Georgia — acquired by First Commerce in 2020 — witnessed firsthand the credit union's extraordinary efforts.
“First Commerce was the shining star in how they responded to the storm,” said Perry, a long-time resident of the area. “I can’t speak highly enough for them.”
In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, First Commerce swiftly reopened its Nashville branch using generator power, making it one of the first businesses — and the first financial institution — in town to resume operations. Located on the “main drag,” according to Perry, the branch became a sanctuary for the entire community.
It opened its doors as a comfort station, providing air conditioning, charging stations for electronic devices, and accessible restrooms to anyone in need. The on-site ATM was operational, allowing residents to access much-needed cash at a time when electronic transactions were down, and other banks remained closed.
Leadership and proactive measures
Anticipating the hurricane's impact, First Commerce Chief Operating Officer Kim Howes helped lead First Commerce’s comprehensive response at its 14 locations. The credit union deployed a team to Jacksonville near their data center to maintain operational contact centers and video teller services. They posted all incoming ACH transactions, so members received their paychecks before the storm, waived ATM fees to facilitate cash access for evacuations, and stocked ATMs with additional cash. Courtesy pay, NSF and late loan fees were also waived after the storm hit to reduce financial stress on members.
Understanding the financial strain on the community post-storm, the credit union implemented several relief measures. They waived late loan fees and offered loan deferral programs. Flexible payment options were provided through existing programs like the "Six Months to First Payment" auto loan campaign.
Extending a helping hand beyond financial services
The credit union's commitment went far beyond traditional banking. Understanding that many residents were unable to prepare hot meals, First Commerce teams — including staff from its Tallahassee headquarters — volunteered to prepare and serve food at its locations in Adel, Nashville, Valdosta, and Ray City, Ga.
Recognizing that many were without the means to prepare food, First Commerce organized community cookouts, serving grilled hamburgers and hot dogs to residents and emergency workers alike.
“Through the cookouts, which were among the very first offered before other relief efforts arrived in particularly in our small communities, our team grilled and served 2,000 hot meals,” Howes said.
In one touching moment, when the team ran out of buns during a cookout in Nashville, a local resident offered her own loaf of bread, according to Howes. Despite having “only eaten one slice,” the woman chose to support her community. Such acts exemplify the collective spirit that emerged in the face of adversity.
Special attention was given to the elderly and disabled. Team members ensured that those who couldn't stand in long lines received meals directly in their cars, emphasizing that the aid was for everyone, without any cost or requirement. When linemen working to restore power mentioned they hadn't eaten, First Commerce staff immediately provided them with meals.
Empowering employees to serve
Many First Commerce employees were personally affected by Hurricane Helene, facing property damage and extended power outages. Yet, their dedication to the community remained unwavering. Despite their own challenges, employees volunteered at comfort stations and cookouts, embodying the credit union philosophy of "people helping people."
The League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU) and the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation (SECUF) provided generators to employees without power, ensuring they could care for their families while assisting others.
“We’ve seen time and time again that these storms have the power to destroy not just buildings, but livelihoods,” said Bobbi Grady, executive director of SECUF. “Whether it’s getting a staff member the insulin they need when their power is out or helping a family find temporary shelter, the Disaster Relief Fund truly saves lives. Every donation makes a direct impact, offering hope to those who need it most.”
The broader movement of 'People Helping People'
First Commerce's actions were part of a larger movement within the credit union industry to support communities in times of need. The LSCU and SECUF played crucial roles. Following the hurricane, they mobilized resources to deliver emergency supplies, including food, water, and mobile branches.
“Our hearts are with all those affected by Hurricane Helene. In moments like these, we see the true power of the ‘people helping people’ movement,” shared Samantha Beeler, president of LSCU. “Credit unions are more than just financial institutions – they are a lifeline for members, and right now, that means offering whatever support possible to help our communities rebuild and recover.”
First Commerce Credit Union remains committed to the ongoing recovery of the communities it serves. Plans are in place to continue offering relief programs and community assistance as rebuilding efforts progress. The credit union is exploring partnerships with local organizations to further aid in restoration and support services.
Contribute to disaster relief
To aid those affected by Hurricane Helene, donations to the SECUF Disaster Relief Fund and other disaster funds can be made here.