Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union welcomed the community to the grand opening of its first Hilo branch on Saturday.
The event included a performance by Taishoji Taiko and keiki games provided by the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center. Prizes were offered, including two $500 Hawaiian Airlines gift cards.
The new branch at 111 Aupuni St. features a drive-up teller window, a 24-hour ATM and a range of online and mobile digital banking services.
The branch was previously the site of HomeStreet Bank.
In addition to Hilo, the credit union has branches in Honokaa, Kailua-Kona, Kealakekua and Kapaau.
HCFCU’s roots go back to the Great Depression, when farmers worked together to form the Kona Farmers Federal Credit Union in 1936. It later acquired the Kohala Federal Credit Union. In 1991, the credit union changed its name and soon expanded membership to the entire island. According to HCFCU, it’s the only credit union in the country founded by coffee farmers.
HCFCU also offers free seminars on topics such as estate planning, medicare basics, home ownership, business security and others. The seminars are free and open to all, including non-credit union members.
Additionally, HCFCU provides annual college scholarships, which are open to all Hawaii Island high schools.