Marcus Buchanan

Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union is expanding.

CEO John Felton said SCFCU purchased the former Rite Aid building located at 811 N. Main St.

The CEO added that the new building will be a full-service branch with office space for a few departments, and 20 employees in the back office.

“We will also have a community conference room available to the public, much like the community room located in Lakewood, our corporate office,” Felton said. “The Jamestown community room will be designed to accommodate 20 to 25 people.”

Felton noted that a September 2026 opening date is projected.

Originally chartered in December 1953, and opening its doors in 1954, SCFCU has grown from humble beginnings into one of the region’s most impactful financial institutions, guided by the credit union philosophy of “people helping people,” Felton said.

Felton noted that SCFCU is recognized for its dedication to serving under-resourced populations and helping families build brighter financial futures. The credit union is also known for its unwavering commitment to “raising the standard of living” for all Chautauqua County residents.

“The purchase of 811 North Main Street isn’t just an investment in a building – it’s an investment in Jamestown’s future,” Felton said. “We are committed to creating spaces where financial inclusion, education, affordable lending, and meaningful community engagement can thrive.”

The credit union has been successful in supporting ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) that work hard but struggle to cover basic needs.

“These are families that live paycheck to paycheck,” Felton added. “These are families that are good, hard working individuals that maybe have been forced to make a few late payments, missed a payment here or there. They are good people that just need a trusted financial institution.”

According to unitedforalice.org, ALICE may be a relative or friend.

“As cashiers, waiters, child care providers, and other members of our essential workforce, ALICE earns just above the Federal Poverty Level but less than what it costs to make ends meet,” the website said.

The acquisition of 811 N. Main St. will allow SCFCU to expand services, create new opportunities for financial education, and extend its outreach to underserved members of the community, Felton said.

SCFCU is a member-owned financial cooperative dedicated to improving the lives of its members and the communities it serves. SCFCU provides affordable financial products and services, promotes financial literacy, and empowers families to achieve long-term stability.