Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union supporting MANNA Food Pantries after Flood Disaster

Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union has committed $50,000 in a matching donation fund to assist MANNA Food Pantries after extensive flood damage to its headquarters, 116 E. Gonzales Street.

According to Gulf Winds President and CEO, Chris Rutledge, “MANNA has always been a necessary resource to those in need of food. Now that MANNA is in need, we are here to make sure they get additional help and resources. It is devastating to see the hard work that MANNA has put in over the years to make their headquarters flow efficiently, be taken away in one occurrence. MANNA has been a part of this community for 60 years and will regroup to continue to be a part of this community.”

“Gulf Winds wanted to create an opportunity for the community to double the amount they give to MANNA,” said Rutledge. “Gulf Winds will match the gift dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000. We want to turn our $50,000 into a $100,000 donation with the help of our community.”

Rutledge says that Gulf Winds has a strong history of supporting our community through our Gulf Winds Cares program. Several Gulf Winds team members took a tour of MANNA on Thursday, May 1. Since all of MANNA’s computers, phones, desks and work stations were ruined, they were in need of a space to operate. Gulf Winds donated an RV to be MANNA’s command center. Carpenters Campers made sure the battery was charged and air conditioning was working. Gulf Winds team members equipped the RV with computers, a generator and wi-fi connection so employees will have dry work stations.

MANNA Executive Director, DeDe Flounlacker said, “Gulf Winds is a good community partner and we are lucky to have their resources to help us get back on our feet. We hope the community will rally together to donate to MANNA in our time of need.”

Currently, MANNA cannot accept any food donations because they do not have dry storage. They are asking for cash donations to help with the recovery. For more information on how to donate to MANNA Food Pantries, visit GoGulfWinds.com. You may also visit our closest branch location to make a donation. Your donation through Gulf Winds will be doubled and 100 percent of the donation will go directly to MANNA Food Pantries.