The credit union’s impact was felt across two large-scale events:
— LAFCU’s fourth annual event, held in partnership with The Village Lansing and Two Men and A Truck, provided more than 300 backpacks complete with school supplies and personal care items donated at LAFCU’s 10 mid-Michigan branches and other collection sites. Since launching in 2022, this event has supported more than 600 children.
— Sponsored by the Brotherhood Against Drugs, which is headed by Founder and President Larry Johnson, this event distributed more than 800 backpacks at St. Joseph Park. Families also received shoes, free haircuts, school physicals, and connections to community resources. The giveaway honors Dr. Johnson, affectionately known as “Triple J,” for her decades of service as Lansing’s director of human relations and community services.
The Backpack Giveaway honoring Dr. Johnson also celebrated 35 children who completed the “Magic of Literacy” summer reading program, which focused on assisting families and children that immerse themselves in reading sessions, interactive activities, and one on one focus support, to increase their reading proficiency for K-3 students. Each child received a graduation certificate and a new pair of shoes to celebrate their achievement.
“LAFCU serves and supports people of modest means, and that commitment extends well beyond financial services,” said Shelia Scott, LAFCU community financial education and business development officer. “By stepping up as a partner and donor, we can ease the rising costs families face and help teachers focus on teaching instead of paying out-of-pocket. When we invest in children and support families, we’re helping the whole community thrive.”
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