History
Why Choose Bessemer System FCU?
If you’re looking for a better way to bank, look no further. We’re ready to serve you, your family, and friends.
We’ve Been Serving You Since 1943.
More than 80 years ago, Bessemer System Federal Credit Union was founded by employees of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad in Greenville, Pa. In 2005, we expanded to become a community credit union. Now we can serve anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school, or owns a business in Mercer County.
Chances Are, You Can Join.
While we’ve grown in scope and size as well the breadth of products we offer, we pride ourselves on providing a personal level of service uncommon today. As a not-for-profit financial institution owned by our members, earnings go back to you in the form of lower fees, better rates, and service that puts you first.
Need More Reasons To Join?
Our full line of financial services can help you no matter what stage of life you’re in. Maybe you’re looking for a car, remodeling your home, or starting a family; perhaps you’re changing jobs or looking to retire. Whatever your needs, we’re here to support you and your life goals.
Save with free checking; it makes managing your money a breeze!
Stay connected with your accounts 24/7 with Home Banking
Take advantage of low-cost financing for any need — a new auto, debt consolidation, or home projects
Make all your dreams come true with savings and loan products designed just for you
Once a Member, Always A Member…
Experience the credit union difference and open your account today. Just maintain $50 in your savings account to qualify for all the benefits of membership. You’ll love the savings, convenience, and being treated as the unique individual you are!
If you’re already a member of Bessemer System FCU, you can extend membership to your children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, or other family and household members. They are all eligible for the benefits of credit union membership.
Learn more at www.bessfcu.com or call (724) 588-6119.
Bessemer System vs. a Bank
We are a full-service financial institution, like a bank; however, there are core differences. As a not-for-profit financial institution, you’re not a customer; you’re an owner. And as our member-owner, you are the sole focus of our business. It is this unique approach to service that sets us apart from other financial institutions.
How We Are Unique From A Bank:
| Bessemer System FCU | Bank |
|---|---|
| Not-for-profit financial cooperative | For-profit corporation |
| Owned by members | Owned by shareholders |
| Works for members’ best interest | Works to make a profit for shareholders |
| Volunteer board of directors | Paid board of directors |
| Lower fees | Higher fees |
| Lower rates charged on loans | Higher rates charged on loans |
To Join
Stop By Our Office And Complete Your Membership Application
There are no fees for membership. The initial minimum deposit is $50 in a savings account. This deposit establishes ownership in the credit union and makes one eligible for all the other benefits and services available. Don't forget your immediate family is eligible to join as well.
Once you have joined, simply maintain $50 in your regular savings account to keep your membership active. This will enable you to take advantage of all the benefits for which you qualify. As a member of our credit union, you are an owner and will help support us by taking advantage of all the services we have to offer.
Once a member, you’re always a member. Your membership never ends, even if you move or leave your place of employment.
Community Work
We are excited to be highlighting different community events on our website. We are big fans of Strayhaven Animal Shelter. They are doing amazing things to get animals adopted and put in touch with the right family. Read about their story and how they started below.
Strayhaven, Past, And Present
OUR HISTORY - In the early fifties, there was no Strayhaven Animal Shelter. There was only a group of caring people who rescued strays, keeping them in their homes until these pitiful dogs and cats were found loving homes. In 1960, this dedicated group decided it was impractical and impossible to keep all the animals in their homes, and Strayhaven Animal Shelter was built and incorporated.
A retired gentleman by the name of Perry Dehart, donated the land and his time to build the shelter. With help from concerned citizens and some government loans, the shelter was completed. From the beginning, the shelter was, and still is, privately run. It is the only for stray dogs and cats to shelter, inoculate, de-worm, and find good homes. Strayhaven is unique in that it keeps its strays longer than most shelters.
At one time, board member Mary Jane Zahniser undertook payment to spay and neuter all dogs and cats. After her death in 1983, the responsibility had to go to the new owners because the shelter could not meet the expense. However, we are glad to announce that starting in 1996, the shelter is proud of the "ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION" low-cost spay and neutering of all dogs and cats. Participating veterinarians offer a discount to each dog and cat that has been adopted from the shelter to be spayed or neutered. Strayhaven is run by paid employees, led by an active volunteer board.
The board is organized to manage, direct, and control all aspects of the shelter. Support comes from Hempfield, West Salem and Sugar Grove townships in the Greenville Borough. Also, we raise money throughout the year in a variety of different fundraisers. However, we are primarily dependent on the generosity of the community giving for the continued successful operation of the shelter.