Keesler FCU Rebuilds From TheStrom

JACKSON, Miss. - (09/12/05) -- The fate and condition of morecredit unions in this state following Hurricane Katrina is becomingclearer as more information is obtained. Keesler FCU, whichsustained millions of dollars in damage, reported that eight of its13 branches are operating, although three of those are stilloperating off-line. Gulf Coast Community CU CEO Lisa Lindsey saidthat two of its three branches have been lost, but the return ofpower midweek has allowed it to restore home banking and onlineservices. Jackson County Employees FCU has lost its building, andofficials have forbidden credit union staff to re-enter thebuilding. It has since relocated temporarily to Singing River FCU,which suffered damage itself, as it seeks another facility.Mississippi-based Hope Community CU said its New Orleans' branchsecurity system went off prior to the storm, meaning it may havebeen looted or flooded. Officials have been unable to visit. OtherCUs reporting damage include Gulfport CBC CU in Gulfport andNavigator CU in Pascagoula. The Mississippi CU Association reportedthat a number of credit union employees have lost theirhomes.