First Commerce Credit Union was recently featured in the trade publication, CU Today, for donating tickets to send every foster child in Berrien County to a special Breakfast with Santa event at Vee’s Restaurant on December 3rd, 2022.

Victoria Hempen, owner of Vee’s Restaurant, hosts the popular Breakfast with Santa gathering every year. “I try to make it a very special event,” said Hempen. “It is always so much fun to see the children’s faces light up. Not only do the kids get to enjoy a pancake breakfast bar and have their picture taken with Santa, but we also put together gift bags to give to all the children.”

This year, First Commerce wanted to make the holidays extra special for Berrien County’s children in foster care.  “First Commerce is always looking for meaningful ways to give back to the communities we serve,” said Cecilia Homison, CEO of First Commerce Credit Union. “During the holidays, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the joy of the season. It is our privilege to play a part in helping these children create memories that will last a lifetime.”

“When we heard that First Commerce wanted to donate the tickets to our foster kids, we were extremely excited for our foster children to have this opportunity,” said Mendi Johns, County Director. “There are so many generous members of our community who go above and beyond to help families out during the holiday season. The foster children of Berrien County have been blessed year after year with the support of so many in our community. It means so much that First Commerce wanted to do something specifically for them.  They donated enough tickets so that every single child in the foster care system in Berrien County will be able to meet Santa.”

Read the article here.