Chamber Christmas Cash loans available starting Nov. 1

Press release

The Havre Area Chamber of Commerce, again, is offering shoppers a way to have some extra holiday cash and keep it local.

Holiday shoppers can secure a Christmas Cash loan at participating lending institution. The Christmas Cash can then be used at 48 Chamber-member businesses.

Interest-free Christmas Cash loans from $500 to $1,500 will be available, with approved credit, at Independence Bank, Stockman Bank and Bear Paw Credit Union starting Nov. 1.

The program has had significant impact on the local economy over the past years by keeping over $7 million in Havre supporting local businesses. Close to $150,000 was loaned last year.

“There will be many opportunities to shop globally over the next several weeks but hopefully as holiday shoppers work through their holiday shopping lists, they will give area businesses a first chance,” Chamber Board President Shawn Holden said. “Let’s keep the money here at local businesses that support local causes all year long through the giving of volunteer and financial resources. One of the great ways to do this is to utilize the Chamber’s Christmas Cash Program.”

The mission of the program when first initiated was to stimulate the local economy during the holiday by keeping money in town, supporting our local businesses.

“We need to thank the community for using and supporting the Chamber’s Christmas Cash Program these past 26 years,” Chamber Executive Director Debbie Vandeberg said.“ Also, a thank-you goes out to the participating financial institutions, Bear Paw Credit Union, Independence Bank and Stockman Bank, for continuing to be our partners in providing this program to the community and to the businesses that participate in the Chamber’s Christmas Cash program. Let’s make the 27th year another successful year for the program.”