METAIRIE – OnPath Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Lafayette with the purchase of nearly one acre of land along Camellia Boulevard near River Ranch, marking the Louisiana-based financial cooperative’s entry into the Acadiana market.
Founded in 1961 at Avondale Shipyards to serve shipyard workers, OnPath Credit Union has grown over more than six decades from a workplace-based institution into a regional credit union serving nearly 90,000 members across Southeast Louisiana. The organization reports more than $1.1 billion in assets.
According to the credit union, the Lafayette expansion reflects a strategic investment aimed at establishing a presence in a growing economic corridor. Jared Freeman, president and CEO of OnPath Credit Union, said Lafayette’s existing financial services landscape and economic activity were factors in the decision.
“Lafayette has a strong financial services community with deep local roots,” Freeman said. “Our mission is focused on expanding access to fair and affordable financial services for working families, and Lafayette’s economy and community characteristics align with that goal.”
OnPath officials point to the credit union’s response following Hurricane Ida in 2021 as an example of its approach to member support. In the week following the storm, the organization provided $2,000 emergency loans to approximately 5,000 members at one percent interest and waived fees for two months, regardless of credit history.
“When our members face challenges, we work to find solutions,” Freeman said.
The planned location at Camellia Boulevard and Verot School Road is intended to serve the River Ranch area and surrounding parts of Lafayette Parish. Freeman said the organization plans to engage with local residents and businesses as it establishes operations in the region.
OnPath also operates the OnPath Foundation, which supports initiatives related to education, homeownership assistance, and entrepreneurship. Freeman said the foundation plans to assess local needs in Lafayette as part of the expansion.
Membership in OnPath Credit Union is open to individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in Southeast Louisiana, including residents of Lafayette Parish.