MELBOURNE, Fla. — Space Coast Credit Union is contributing $75,000 to the American Red Cross and United Way Space Coast to support flood relief and recovery in Brevard County.
The contribution follows heavy rainfall Nov. 1-2 that flooded homes and washed out roads in Palm Bay, Malabar, West Melbourne and nearby communities. Some areas received more than 20 inches of rain, with southern Brevard County among the hardest hit, according to the credit union. Florida declared a state of emergency Nov. 2.
The Red Cross opened an emergency shelter for displaced residents at Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way in Melbourne, and is providing immediate assistance to families, the credit union said. The organization is part of the credit union’s Partners in Purpose nonprofit program.
“The recent flooding in Brevard County is just the latest example of why this support is so important, helping ensure the American Red Cross is prepared to respond at a moment’s notice when our neighbors need us most,” said Janice Moran, executive director in the Red Cross’ North and Central Florida Region.
Moran said the partnership with the credit union helps the Red Cross care for and strengthen the communities both organizations serve.
Credit union employees also are volunteering with the Red Cross. Employees were scheduled to assemble flood relief kits Nov. 6 at Wickham Park Senior Center for distribution to families recovering from the flooding.
United Way Space Coast is working with Brevard County Emergency Management and local organizations to connect residents with assistance and mobilize recovery volunteers, according to the credit union.
“As a credit union, our members are our neighbors,” said Shane Hoyle, the credit union’s president and CEO. “Brevard has always shown up for one another. Supporting the organizations doing this work on the ground is how we show up now, and we’ll keep looking for ways to help as our community rebuilds.”
