Hitting The Brakes: CUs Make Plans In Wake Of Auto Lay-Offs.(credit unions)(Ford Motor Co. plans...

DETROIT, Mich. -- Credit unions across the nation are making plans to help their members-and themselves-in the wake of Ford Motor Co.'s announcement last week that it would cut some 34,000 jobs by 2008.

While some CU leaders are discussing steps to expand their charters, others expect to develop programs to provide members with financial assistance. Still more said they need more information about how their field will be effected before they can determine a plan of action.

For credit unions serving the auto industry, the announcement demonstrates how what w