Action Against Hunger: Virginia Credit Union, Member One Support Local Nonprofit Farms in Richmond and Lynchburg

Virginia Credit Union (VACU) and its Member One division are promoting food security and accessibility in the communities we serve through financial support and volunteer initiatives.

Thirty VACU members and employees volunteered recently at Shalom Farms in Richmond, helping the food nonprofit build fences, harvest fall crops, and carry out maintenance projects. The two partners are also celebrating a milestone in the credit union's financial support: VACU has donated $100,000 to Shalom Farms since 2018.

Member One, a division of Virginia Credit Union, recently made a $5,000 donation to Lynchburg Grows, a nonprofit urban farm using organic methods to offer farm-fresh, affordable produce to Lynchburg-area residents. The donation will support farm operations and the organization's youth-focused educational programs.

"Food assistance and helping address local food insecurity are an ongoing focus for our community engagement efforts," said VACU President/CEO Chris Shockley. "We're proud to continue our long and successful partnership with Shalom Farms and to support the work of Lynchburg Grows, both of which offer fresh, affordable produce in areas of their respective cities where such access is challenging."

Shalom Farms' agricultural operation includes two large-scale farms with nine acres in production, harvesting more than 600,000 servings of produce annually. The organization's education programs provide instruction and resources on how to cook and eat healthily, and it remains a recognized leader in food advocacy for its efforts to end hunger and expand community access to fresh food.

"We are so grateful for our long-running partnership with VACU," said Shalom Farms Executive Director Anna Ibrahim. "Their dedicated volunteers and generous contributions are helping to ensure equitable fresh-food access to thousands of Richmonders. Our work would not be possible without their support!"

In 2018, VACU provided the financial resources and more than 100 volunteers to aid Shalom Farms in constructing a greenhouse at its Northside Farm location in Richmond. VACU's 2024 financial contribution of $25,000 will aid Shalom Farms in expanding its greenhouses. Learn more about Shalom Farms here: shalomfarms.org.

Lynchburg Grows is a seven-acre nonprofit farm operation in the heart of Lynchburg. In addition to its food-based programs, the farm also seeks to employ individuals with disabilities. It offers educational programs for area students and food preparation and nutrition classes. It also donates produce to other community partners working to address hunger. Learn more about Lynchburg Grows here: lynchburggrows.org.

"We are deeply grateful for our partnership with VACU and Member One. Their support has been instrumental in our mission to provide fresh, local produce and meaningful employment opportunities in Lynchburg," said Lynchburg Grows Executive Director Shelley Blades. "Our work at Lynchburg Grows wouldn't be possible without partners like Member One, who share our vision for a healthier, more sustainable community. Their commitment goes beyond financial support — it's a true investment in our neighbors' well-being and our city's future."

About Virginia Credit Union
A financial cooperative serving almost 500,000 members, Virginia Credit Union and its Member One division offer a variety of affordable banking services, loans, mortgages, and free financial education resources, with a focus on helping people be more confident with their finances. Virginia Credit Union and its Member One division are equal housing opportunity lenders and are federally insured by the NCUA.