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LAPLACE — Team members at 1st Franklin Financial in LaPlace are known as the “Friendly Franklin Folks” because of their commitment to treat customers with respect, like they are treasured members of the family.

The finance company has been in business since 1941. The local branch opened on Belle Terre Boulevard in 2011. However, customers will now find 1st Franklin Financial at its new location, 1819 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace.

The River Region Chamber of Commerce celebrated the move last week with a ribbon cutting.

“It’s good to see businesses opening and thriving, and the Chamber is here to help with whatever they need,” said 2020 Chairwoman Aspen Murphy.

Heather Gautreaux, manager of the LaPlace location, said 1st Franklin Financial offers friendly service and loans ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.

“We have a variety of products that we offer for lower interest rates,” Gautreaux said. “We have premier loans, mortgage loans and consolidation loans. We’re happy to get referrals.”

Gautreaux said the Friendly Franklin Folks have helped customers rebuild credit so they could get the home or vehicle of their dreams. One customer secured a loan with insurance less than two months before her home caught fire. Had she not come to 1^st Franklin Financial, she would not have been able to rebuild.

“I’m from here. I’ve lived here my entire life, so I’m obligated to help the community,” Gautreaux said.

Business hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday. For more information, call 985-652-1332, visit 1ffc.com or visit the LaPlace location at 1819 W. Airline Highway.