AUSTIN, Texas---University Federal Credit Union has kicked off its "Howdy Tour" with the debut of its new mobile branch, which is said is a first of its kind in Central Texas.
The UFCU Mobile Branch is focused on increasing access in traditionally underbanked communities, the credit union said.
“A component of the company's ongoing efforts to provide access to capital, education, and resources, the UFCU Mobile Branch extends the credit union's financial products, services, and educational resources to geographical areas with limited or no banking presence, addressing critical issues of affordability and financial inclusion,” it said in a statement.
According to UFCU, the mobile branch will help bridge the financial services gap for Texas' unbanked and underbanked communities, which make up an estimated 24% of Texas households, by delivering vital financial services directly to underserved areas — in the neighborhoods where they live and work.
“Individuals without access to a credit union or bank are almost 10 times more likely to use check cashing than banked households,” the credit unions aid. “The UFCU Mobile Branch enables members to eliminate check-cashing fees while also offering ATM access, account set-up, starter and cashier's checks, instant-issue debit cards, money orders, fund transfers, loan and credit card applications, loan payments, notary services, and more.”
The UFCU Mobile Branch will also host educational seminars and feature bilingual staff to serve Spanish-speaking consumers.
“By partnering with trusted community-minded organizations like Foundation Communities and Equidad, UFCU leverages its established relationships to gain a deeper understanding of the unique needs of the communities they serve,” UFC added.
It said its collaborative approach rooted in long-term partnerships that ensures it enters these areas with a genuine desire to learn, serve, and create effective solutions.
"Working with our community partners, we are committed to improving access to financial services for all Texans," UFCU CEO and President Michael Crowl said in a statement. "The UFCU Mobile Branch is a significant step towards addressing the financial barriers traditionally underserved communities face. We appreciate the support and trust of our partners and the community as we embark on this important mission to ensure a thriving Texas includes all Texans."
In addition to serving underserved areas, UFCU said the mobile branch will support numerous UFCU efforts, including disaster recovery and community engagement events like local festivals, university sporting events, and partner endeavors.
"The UFCU Mobile Branch allows us to build relationships and establish trust within these vital communities as we expand access to financial services and promote financial education in a convenient, accessible, and welcoming environment," Executive Vice President of Membership Chris Turnley said in a statement. "We're thrilled to premiere the UFCU Mobile Branch, part of our overall effort to better serve and more deeply understand the needs of our community members."
The unveiling event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with UFCU executives and board members, community leaders, and elected officials, including Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Austin Councilwoman Vanessa Fuentes.