VALDOSTA, Ga.—At the $26-million Georgia Power Valdosta FCU, despite the CU serving the local power company, the biggest problem with getting back to business has been a lack of electricity, CEO Kim Cowart said.
“I have to say, having Georgia Power as our sponsor, we have had no pull with them,” kidded Cowart, who said Thursday power was restored to the CU’s one office Wednesday.
“That’s when we really were able to begin serving our members, helping them with short-term loans and whatever they need,” Cowart explained.
Wind damage destroyed much of the power grid here from the deadliest storm to hit mainland U.S. since Hurricane Katrina .
“The big thing now is rebuilding the transmission lines, that has to be done before power can be restored to many area,” Cowart said.
The CEO said GPVFCU and the town were shocked by Helene’s reach.
“We could use a generator, but the size of the generator we’d need to run the business, we can’t afford,” Cowart said. “I’ve lived in this area a long time and worked at the credit union for 35 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Robins Financial Responds
In Warner Robins, Ga., Robins Financial said its offices are open and serving members who have been affected by the storm.
"Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by Hurricane Helene," said Christina O’Brien, president and CEO of Robins Financial. "We understand the challenges our members are facing, and we are here to help them get back on their feet."
Robins Financial said its key initiatives are a special Hurricane Assistance Loan, a one-month skip-a-payment and mortgage assistance that would provide a temporary postponement of payments.
"Our goal is to do everything we can to help our members recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene," said Shane Reagan, vice president of consumer lending. "Through these challenges we remain dedicated to our mission to be Member Focused, Financial Partners, Community Proud."
Also, several Robins Financial team members from Warner Robins loaded up their vehicles with supplies like diapers and wipes, food, water, protein shakes, as well as snacks and made the trip to the Georgia towns of Dublin, McRae, and Swainsboro to deliver them to affected members in those communities.