Manitoba—Living off a fixed income due to special abilities can make spending money sparse, which means incurred account fees can add up. When an Access member approached their local branch to discuss the burden account fees have on a loved one with special abilities, Access Credit Union took action to complete a thorough account review in search of the best account for this type of member.

When no existing account package was found that would support this member in the way they needed, Access was inspired to design a new account suite. The new Ability chequing and savings accounts aim to make easy, no-fee banking accessible to those members who may need a bit more support with their financial freedom.

“We believe that every member deserves access to A+ service,” says Chief Experience Officer, Bernice McClintock. “That means that regardless of your ability, we will have an account that works for you and your needs.”

The Ability accounts offer no-fee banking to support those members of the special abilities community who may be on a fixed or reduced income and unable to afford service fees. There is no age restriction and accounts can be set up with or without guardianship, based on each individual members’ abilities and requiring only minor conditions.

“At Access Credit Union, we have promised to be where our members need us to be—and this extends beyond accessibility to service to the very accounts we offer,” says CEO, Larry Davey. “We support all members of all abilities and believe that every member deserves an account and an experience that fits their needs.”

Both legacy Crosstown Civic and Access Credit Unions have supported the special abilities community through volunteer initiatives and donations. The new Access Credit Union, formed January 1, 2021, will continue to support these organizations such as Manitoba Possible, St. Amant Foundation, and Gateway Resources as well as local group homes and resource centres.

Members are asked to call or visit their local branch to set up an account for themselves or on behalf of a loved one with special abilities.