Freedom, OK, population 271, needed the services of a convenience store that was open seven days a week with extended hours of operation. That need was met when Darrell C. Myers received financial assistance to purchase an existing business with the help of REI and First American Bank, Woodward, OK. REI and First American Bank partnered in the SBA 504 and SBA (7) lending programs to provide the financial assistance Myers needed to purchase Camp Houston Country Store.
The business is located on State Highway 50 and U.S. 64, a main passage way serving Woods County. Its a welcomed sight by motorist passing through or people traveling to and from the Oklahoma panhandle.
A convenience store is no small thing to a rural area like Freedom. said Kyle Hughbanks, President & CEO, Central National Bank of Alva, and REI board of directors member. Theres a lot of windshield time between Freedom and Alva, or Woodward, or the panhandle and travelers are looking for a quick break. Now they have one that better services their need.
Hughbanks just recently joined the REI board of directors and is assisting the organization with marketing the organizations programs in northwestern Oklahoma. REI has an office location in Alva.
This is also a good example of how REI partners with local banks and the U. S. Small Business Administration to provide capital to Oklahoma entrepreneurs, Hughbanks said. I am excited about serving on the board of directors of such a progressive organization.
According to Myers, a deli will be added to the stores services which will further meet the needs of weary travelers.
REI is a statewide economic development organization with offices in five Oklahoma locations.