Special Loan Discounts for Storm Victims!

The storm that blew through St. Louis on Good Friday affected many communities. Vantage Credit Union is headquartered in Bridgeton, where the worst of the storm devastated many homes and businesses.

We were lucky; our building sustained minimal damage. Now, to help our community start getting back up on its feet, we’re offering significantly reduced loan rates on home improvement and personal loans for those who have been affected.

Home Improvement Loan, now 3.75%
(Normally 10.50%, 60-month maximum term. $10,000 maximum loan)

Personal Loan, now 5.00%
(Normally 15.9%)

These specially reduced rates will only be available to storm victims through Friday, June 24. As with any loan, credit approval is required.

You can apply online today. You can also call 314.298.0055 or 800.522.6009, or visit one of our branch locations to get started. We’re here to help!

Also, beware of scams when it comes to repairs!
An unfortunate part of events such as this storm is scam artists, posing as reputable contractors, ready to take anyone who will let them. This event is no different. Police are reporting that scam artists are already out in full force.

Consider these points when looking for someone to repair your home:

• Watch for out-of-state plates.
   
• Use local contractors and check the Better Business Bureau.
   
• DON'T give any money up-front or pay cash (except maybe for tree removal).
   
• Get at least two bids.
   
• Work with your insurance company as they will have reputable contractors you can use.

Following are a few of the ways the United Way and our community are working together to assist with storm recovery efforts:

• If you or someone you know needs help, please dial 2-1-1 or 800.427.4626 to be connected to resources. A trained specialist is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
   
• The generosity of our community has been remarkable, and many have asked how they can help. At this time, the United Way is saying the best way to help is through monetary donations. Remember to donate to a trusted and known organization that has a history of disaster response. Be particularly careful of sound-alike organizations. Trusted, local organizations include: United Way’s Storm Recovery Fund, The American Red Cross––St. Louis Chapter, The Salvation Army and Catholic Charities to name just a few.
   
• Through the outpouring of help in our region, United Way will provide $100,000 to support the immediate needs of people impacted by the storms through the American Red Cross––St. Louis Chapter and The Salvation Army. An additional $100,000 is also being invested in immediate relief through United Way 2-1-1, which will continue to work closely with other relief organizations.
   
• Long after the media attention has ended, the needs of those impacted by the storms will continue. Recovery will be a long process. To ensure both immediate and long-term needs are met, United Way will continue to provide leadership and staff support to the Long Term Recovery Committee, a regional team of non-profit and government agencies focused on long-term recovery.
   
• United Way’s Volunteer Center is helping people who want to volunteer find safe and effective ways to do so. In disaster situations, it is important volunteers are deployed to appropriate and safe projects. If you would like to volunteer as projects become available, sign up here.