The NCUA Has Given The Green Light for a New Charter Application for Diverge, a Proposed FCU. This New CU Will Improve Access to Affordable Banking Products for Historically Unbanked People.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has extended its approval for a new charter application for Diverge, a Proposed Federal Credit Union (PFCU), whose mission is to advance economic empowerment for historically marginalized and unbanked communities.
A Proposed Federal Credit Union providing a financial home for historically unbanked people and their families.
Discrimination in financial services is a significant problem for millions of formerly incarcerated individuals, and especially impacts people of color and women. An unwelcoming financial system forces people to rely on check cashers, payday lenders and other high-cost, non-bank alternatives. Diverge will address systemic discrimination by improving access to affordable products and financial education to help people build long-term financial health.
"I'd like to commend the team behind Diverge PFCU's charter application. Their concept is an example of true financial inclusion, and it's also an example of why reforming NCUA's chartering process is one of my top priorities," said Kyle S. Hauptman, NCUA Vice Chairman.
Individuals, businesses, and other organizations can join the proposed new credit union through approved membership organizations, including First Step Alliance, whose membership is broadly open to formerly incarcerated people, their families, and supporters. Future credit union members will be able to access their accounts online and with a mobile banking app, as well as through a large fee-free ATM network. Credit union staff will provide more personalized service by phone and at planned branch locations.
"Justice-involved individuals are frequently shut out of mainstream banking, forcing them to use high-cost, often predatory non-bank providers," said Nancy Eiden, Founder and Board Chair for First Step Alliance. "Everyone deserves a fair chance to restart their lives, and access to financial services is an integral part of successful reentry."
There are several ways individuals and organizations can get involved and show their support for the project:
Individuals interested in becoming a future member of Diverge PFCU can take the Community Membership Survey at https://www.research.net/r/diverge-fsa
Individuals can make a donation to support the formation of the proposed new credit union at https://www.divergecu.org/donate
Organizations interested in providing a capital contribution, deposit pledge, or other support can find additional information at https://www.divergecu.org/sponsor-us