Metairie, LA (June 26, 2024) |
OnPath Credit Union and Louisiana Federal Credit Union (FCU), a division of OnPath Federal Credit Union (FCU), are excited to announce the launch of their annual Pack the Pirogue school supply drive for the 2024-25 school year. This vital initiative aims to provide essential school supplies to students and teachers in Tangipahoa, Ascension, Lafourche, Orleans, St. Tammany, and the River Parishes.
As part of the initiative, community members nominate teachers in need, ensuring that supplies remain where they are most needed. In 2023, thanks to the generous support of credit union members, over 2,000 school supply items were donated, nearly 200 teacher nominations were received, and a total of 12 classrooms received a pirogue packed with essential supplies. With the recent merger finalized, the 2024 drive will now extend to all 10 OnPath Credit Union branches and all 5 Louisiana Federal Credit Union branches, allowing for an even greater impact in the upcoming school year.
"We are thrilled to be involved in this crucial community initiative," said Jared Freeman, CEO of OnPath Credit Union and Louisiana Federal Credit Union. "With inflation on the rise, parents are reevaluating their spending, even on essential school supplies. Supporting education within our communities is a vital part of our mission as a credit union."
Community Outreach Associate for the last five years, Krisy Rice, has witnessed firsthand the impact Pack the Pirogue has had on teachers and students alike. “A teacher in Tangipahoa Parish kept a drawer of snacks for hungry students, which inspired us to not only provide her classroom with supplies but also purchase additional snacks," recalled Rice. "I’ll never forget the little boy who, upon receiving his box of snacks, exclaimed, ‘This is the best day of my life.’ It’s those days that reaffirm why this initiative is so important.”
The 2024 drive will run from June 24th to August 19th. Credit union members and the community can drop off donations at any OnPath FCU or Louisiana FCU branch, or donate online at www.LouisianaFCU.org/pack-the-
Candace Collins of Garyville Magnet, was so excited to recieve her pirogue stating, "It's going to take a load off some of the parents who are trying to get supplies."