Suncoast Credit Union, the largest credit union in Florida, presented a historic $100,000 donation to the Tri-County Community Resource Center on Monday, marking the largest financial gift in the organization’s history. This contribution is part of Suncoast’s $850,000 statewide relief commitment to support communities most impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with a specific focus on hunger relief, crisis management, and education.

The donation will serve as a lifeline for families in Levy, Gilchrist, and Dixie counties, enabling the Tri-County Community Resource Center to expand critical services such as food, shelter, counseling, and educational support for families in the aftermath of these devastating storms. The donation comes at a time when nonprofit organizations face extraordinary obstacles in rural communities, such as limited funding and a lack of resources.

“As Floridians recover from the severe impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Suncoast Credit Union is committed to standing beside our communities in rebuilding lives and restoring hope,” said Kevin Johnson, President and CEO, Suncoast Credit Union. “By partnering with organizations like the Tri-County Community Resource Center, we aim to bridge the resource gap for families and strengthen support systems in rural areas that face unique challenges. We are committed to ensuring our communities have the resources to thrive well into the future.”

The donation ceremony was attended by Beverly Goodman, Manager of the Tri-County Community Resource Center, alongside local families who have benefited from the center’s resources, board members, Bobby Schultz, Gilchrist County Sheriff, Christopher Cowart, Superintendent of Levy County Schools, and Suncoast Credit Union executives. Also in attendance was Ginger Griffeth, CEO of Partnerships for Strong Families, who emphasized the positive impact this historic support will bring to the region.

“As a full-service social services provider in Dixie, Levy, and Gilchrist counties for 9 years, we serve as a critical lifeline for families impacted by Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton,” said Beverly Goodman, Manager, Tri-County Community Resource Center. “Suncoast’s generous support of $100,000 will help us provide emergency housing, food, and essential bill pay assistance, as well as meet unique needs like replacing medical equipment. This funding ensures we can continue to respond quickly and effectively to our community's most urgent needs.”

The Tri-County Community Resource Center, located at 15 N. Main Street in Chiefland, has long served as a pivotal resource in the region. With this transformative support from Suncoast Credit Union, the center is now better positioned than ever to uplift the lives of those in need, providing immediate relief and establishing a stronger foundation for the future.

In addition to supporting the Tri-County Community Resource Center, Suncoast Credit Union’s $850,000 relief commitment extends to 12 other essential organizations, including the American Red Cross, United Way Suncoast, Feeding Tampa Bay, and nine local education foundations, to bolster hurricane recovery efforts across Florida.