JetStream Federal Credit Union CEO Jeanne Kucey Calls Attention To Vital Impact Of Community Development Financial Institutions
JetStream Federal Credit Union’s CEO, Jeanne Kucey, appeared before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection, where she appealed to the Committee members to fund credit unions like JetStream so they can better meet urgent capital needs in their communities. Mrs. Kucey testified on Capitol Hill along with Robert James II, of Carver Financial Corporation and Joel Griffith of the Heritage Foundation. The three experts gave testimony about the role of Community Development Institutions, known as CDFIs, and Minority Depository Institutions in supporting communities.
JetStream Federal, with branches in South Florida and Puerto Rico, is a CDFI, and in this capacity, the credit union provides loans to individuals with low incomes, frequently in distressed communities. CDFIs include community development banks, credit unions, loan funds, and venture funds.
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At the hearing, Mrs. Kucey called attention to the important impact her institution makes, especially in an era of historic wealth inequality. “CDFIs play a crucial role in the development of local communities. Their financial services support the growth of local businesses and the jobs they provide for the community,” said Mrs. Kucey.
She also pointed out the importance of credit unions during times of crisis. In her testimony, Mrs. Kucey referred to steps JetStream Federal took in the wake of Hurricane Maria to ensure financial continuity for residents of Puerto Rico. “We knew that we had to act through no-cost, zero percent APR short-term loans, deferment of existing loan payments, elimination of transactional fees, and financial coaching for our members who were dealing with active insurance cases and attempting to rebuild their homes,” she said.
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As an example of JetStream Federal’s ongoing effort to serve the community, the credit union recently launched its Increasing Climate Resiliency and Health Equity through Energy Efficiency (ICRHEEE) strategy, which helps low-income homeowners improve their homes to better face the impact of climate change. The program includes loans for home improvements such as purchasing high-efficiency appliances and installing solar panels. In addition, the program offers borrowers financial counseling and coaching.
“Personal or financial setbacks should not prohibit aspiring individuals from pursuing economic success,” Mrs. Kucey added. “JetStream aids low-income or economically distressed communities and fights wealth inequality, and we are proud to contribute to the conversation on the national stage. Our sole focus is to lead our members down the path to prosperity.”
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