JOPLIN - The Missouri Credit Union Association is working with local credit unions to help in the aftermath of Sunday's devastating tornado in Joplin. The Missouri Credit Union Association made a donation of $10,000 to CUAid to kick-off the fundraising efforts, and contributions from credit unions bring the total to more than $40,000.

President of the Missouri Credit Union Association Mike Beall says that all four credit unions with locations in Joplin have checked in with some level of damage. These locations include the District 7 Highway Credit Union, Great Plains Federal Credit Union, Joplin Metro Credit Union and Postal Federal Community Credit Union.

"Following reports from local credit union leaders, we have asked the National Credit Union Foundation (NCUF) to activate CUAid, the national network for credit union employees and credit union members," Beall said. 

"With nearly 40,000 members in the area represented by these four credit unions, we know the need for support from the movement will be great," Beall said. He also urges everyone to give what they can to CUAid to help credit unions do what they do best-be there in times of need for their members.

The National Credit Union Foundation's CUAid disaster relief funds can be used for a broad range of disaster-related needs such as critical care, long-term recovery, insurance pay-outs, and reasonable operational needs.

In addition to its contribution to CUAid, MCUA also has made a $5,000 contribution to the American Red Cross for Missouri tornado victims.