Ottawa Women’s Credit Union

Financial institution based on the philosophy of women helping women 

Founded in Ottawa in 1980 by Lynne Markell, then of the Social Planning Council, and Aline Akeson and Dorothy O’Connell, then of the Ottawa Tenant’s Council.

First financial institution to lend to women in their own names; it is the only financial institution in Canada founded by women for women and their families.

Has 1,200 members; each member is an owner in the credit union, and must buy shares to join.

Provides loans, financial information and counselling designed to encourage financial independence of women living in the Capital.

Lily Schreyer, wife of then Governor General Ed Schreyer, became the honorary first member at the opening ceremonies in September 1980.

www.owcu.on.ca
http://cusr.cucentral.com/Blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=83
www.ottawa.openfile.ca