The New Orleans Firemen's Federal Credit Union wants all LSFA members to know about its new branch in Lockport in Lafourche Parish.

"We're more than just a financial institution," said Shasta Leininger, who handles marketing and business development for the group.

The official opening celebration will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6, 2008 at the New Orleans Firemen's Federal Credit Union's new office, 702 Lafourche St. in Lockport, with food, music, door prizes, pictures with Santa Claus and a chance to win a $250 Visa gift card.

This will be the eighth branch for the credit union, whose offices are mostly concentrated in New Orleans. It has operated since 1934.

The non-profit status of the credit union allows it to keep rates low and offer special savings programs for families, Leininger said.

Any member of the Louisiana State Fireman's Association is automatically eligible.

But any business also can sign up to become part of its Select Employee Group - for free - and so allow its employees to join.

"We're just looking to expand in the area," Leininger said. "We definitely want to show the businesses what we're all about."

The group is also federally insured.

"We're safe secure, and strong," she said.