Author: Ashira Quabili

Stuffing Stockings on a Rainy Night

Staff Fill Stockings for the Empty Stocking Fund

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(L to R) Pictured are Freedom volunteers Alicia Bowman, Susan Tannahill, Julie Irby (seated), Kelly Berends, Dominique Beverly and Tabitha Becker with her sons Robby and Riley.

A group of Freedom employees and their children spent Tuesday night helping the Empty Stocking Fund pull together Christmas gifts for needy children. The Empty Stocking Fund (ESF) collects new, unwrapped toys for distribution to local children who would otherwise go without. Additionally, ESF collects food goods and monetary donations for local families in need. Collection begins several months before the holidays. Freedom has supported the ESF with collection efforts at all branches for many years now.

Pulling together the “stockings” is a fun process. In a warehouse full of collected goods, volunteers select a variety of toys, games, clothing, books, grooming supplies and other gifts appropriate for each individual child. It’s a wonderful way to spread the joy of the season.

A large collection of items that we’ve collected this year will be picked up for the Empty Stocking Fund today, replenishing the supply of goodies for distribution. Thanks to the members and staff who contributed supplies or funds to the effort!

Start an IRA at 21, and Watch Your Savings Grow!

Why Start an IRA?

Say you save $100 a pay period, or $200 a month, in an IRA Share Certificate beginning when you’re 21. This account currently pays a 1.40% Annual Dividend Rate for a 60-month term.1 With the effect of compounded dividends over time, allowing principal to grow, by the time you’re 65 years of age, you’d have $145,829 for retirement.2,3 Add to this other investments and anticipated Social Security, and you have a nice start towards retirement!
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1 $300 minimum opening deposit for all regular share and IRA certificate accounts

2 Fees could reduce earnings on the account

3 A penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal that could reduce earnings

More “Digital Wallets” Available

Android Pay, Samsung Pay Digital Wallets Available

Now Freedom members can use Android Pay and Samsung Pay. An Apple Pay option is already available to members. These Digital Wallet options allow you to securely add credit card and debit card information to your Android or Samsung phone. You can then use your phone to securely pay for purchases.

As always, if you have questions or concerns, please reach out to our Contact Center at 1-800-440-4120 or MemberService@FreedomFCU.org.