Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Buffalo Credit Union for Savings & Loans
St. John United Federal Credit Union has served the Buffalo community since 1973, founded on the vision of Rev. Dr. Bennett W. Smith, Sr. As a Community Development Credit Union (CDCU), we prioritize financial empowerment for residents, workers, worshippers, and students in Buffalo, NY. Our volunteer-driven operations have facilitated over 3,100 loans totaling $8 million while maintaining a commitment to financial education and community revitalization. We offer savings accounts, personal loans, auto loans, and specialized programs like Individual Development Accounts to support low-income members. Our unique model combines faith-based roots with a mission to foster economic growth through accessible financial services.With no full-time staff, our dedicated volunteers ensure personalized service during Saturday hours. We partner with local organizations to expand financial literacy and maintain competitive rates for all members. Celebrating 50 years of service in 2023, we remain steadfast in our philosophy of 'People Helping People.' Our physical location at 184 Goodell Street serves as both a financial institution and community hub. Through strategic mergers and expanded membership criteria, we continue to grow while preserving our core values of transparency and community investment.
Services
Savings Accounts
Auto Loans
Personal Loans
Share Secured Loans
Financial Counseling
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- 50 years serving Buffalo's financial needs since 1973
- Volunteer-driven operations with personalized service
- Competitive loan rates for new and used vehicles
- Specialized programs for low-income community members
- Financial education workshops and youth savings initiatives
Associations and certifications
- National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
- Community Development Credit Union (CDCU)
Services
Savings Accounts
Our savings accounts provide secure financial growth opportunities for all members. With options including regular shares, holiday savings clubs, and youth-focused accounts, we help build financial stability. Competitive interest rates and community-focused programs support long-term wealth development.
Auto Loans
We offer low-rate auto loans for new and used vehicle purchases. Competitive terms and flexible approval processes make vehicle ownership accessible. Our loan specialists help members find optimal financing solutions for their transportation needs.
Personal Loans
Personal loans provide financial flexibility for unexpected expenses or planned purchases. We offer competitive rates with no collateral requirements. Loan amounts and terms are tailored to individual member needs and financial circumstances.
Financial Counseling
Our financial counseling services include budgeting guidance and debt management strategies. Free workshops and one-on-one consultations help members improve financial literacy. We focus on practical solutions for long-term financial health.
Share Secured Loans
Share secured loans use savings accounts as collateral for lower interest rates. These loans help build credit history while maintaining savings growth. Flexible terms allow members to access funds while preserving their financial foundation.
People
Bertha Drayton
President
Bertha Drayton leads our Board of Directors with decades of community financial service experience. She oversees strategic operations and volunteer coordination while maintaining our founding mission. Her leadership has guided the credit union through 50 years of community impact.
Questions
Who can join St. John United Federal Credit Union?
Anyone living, working, worshipping, or studying in Buffalo, NY can join. Membership includes family members of eligible individuals.
What loan programs do you offer?
We provide auto loans, personal loans, share secured loans, and specialized programs like IDA accounts with competitive rates.
How are you different from traditional banks?
We operate entirely through volunteer efforts with no full-time staff, maintaining lower overhead costs to benefit members with better rates.
Do you offer financial education resources?
Yes, we provide free financial workshops and counseling services covering budgeting, debt management, and savings strategies.
What are your branch hours?
Our physical location is open Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for in-person transactions and consultations.
