Sturdy Savings Bank’s Second Annual ‘Run Wild’ 5K Race Welcomes More than 400 Participants

On April 23, Sturdy Savings Bank hosted its second annual ‘Run Wild’ 5K Run and 1-mile walk at the Cape May County Park and Zoo.

The event once again attracted runners from all over the state of New Jersey and beyond, with over 400 runners and walkers traversing the course that brought them around and through the Zoo. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Cape May County Park & Zoo and Family Promise of Cape May County.

Dozens of children ages 3-12 also participated in the Kids Fun Run, which took place immediately following the Race/Walk event.

Ascendia Bank Makes Charitable Donations

Ascendia Bank has made charitable donations to a variety of organizations in the northern New Jersey communities it serves. The bank’s latest philanthropic efforts include donations to:

• Ridgewood YMCA in Ridgewood ($2,500)
• The Good Shepherd Mission, a drug and alcohol abuse rehabilitation center, in Paterson ($5,000)
• Passaic County Habitat for Humanity in Paterson ($5,000)
• The Apostles’ House, a shelter and social services organization in Newark ($5,000)
• CUMAC, which is dedicated to hunger and its root causes, in Paterson ($5,000)

Paterson Habitat for Humanity and Kearny Bank Construct Residence

Paterson Habitat for Humanity is constructing a residence at 150 Governor Street and Kearny Bank employees from branches across northern New Jersey, as well as from the bank’s corporate offices, recently volunteered a day to help. Participants were Edna Rios, Vice President / Regional Sales and Development Officer, and Jose Borbon, Assistant Vice President (AVP) / Small Business Association Portfolio Servicing Manager, both of whom are based at the company’s corporate offices; Tatiana Lopez, AVP / Retail Relationship Manager (RRM) at the Clifton-Montclair Heights location; Shawn Morton, AVP / RRM at the West Orange branch; Patricia Esposito-Hulbert, AVP / RRM at the Wayne branch; Sue Catania, the Pequannock location’s AVP / RRM; and Fiserv Business Consultant Cassandra Lipsey.  

 
Spencer Savings Bank Partners With Habitat for Humanity To Help Fulfill Homeownership Dreams



Spencer Savings Bank recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County to help fulfill local homeownership dreams. The nonprofit helps families build and improve places to call home and provides a “hand up” to community members in need. Spencer employees volunteered their time and spent the day working on two job sites – a construction project in Hillsdale that included spackling walls and a refinishing project at the ReStore in Westwood where the team refinished furniture. The bank also made a monetary donation.

Habitat for Humanity believes affordable housing plays a critical role in building strong and stable communities and is focused on building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. The organization requires homeowners to put in 250 hours of “sweat equity” into building their homes, aside from meeting income qualifications and being able to afford a monthly mortgage payment.  

Spencer is proud to be a partner of Habitat for Humanity for over two decades. During this time, the bank has donated almost $100,000 to the nonprofit, as well as countless hours of employee volunteer time.

Ascendia Bank Holds Well-attended Rebranding Celebrations at All Branches in Glen Rock, Hawthorne & West Orange

Ascendia Bank President Fred Viaud presenting Microsoft® Surface Go 3 to sweepstakes winner Meg Natale in the Hawthorne branch/HQ

Ascendia Bank, formerly Glen Rock Savings Bank, celebrated its new name and refreshed identity with a Rebranding Celebration on Saturday, May 14^th at its four branches, located at 175 Rock Road in Glen Rock; 250 Lincoln Avenue in Hawthorne; 474 Prospect Avenue in West Orange; and 83 Northfield Avenue in West Orange. The celebrations were a precursor to the Bank’s 100^th Anniversary in September.

Experience Blue Foundry Bank’s Newly Reimagined Branch in Florham Park, NJ
Blue Foundry Bank, a financial institution that offers a full service, crafted banking experience, announced the unveiling of its reimagined branch location at 209 Ridgedale Ave, Florham Park, New Jersey. The new design, by DMR Architects, reflects the Bank’s reinvention and creates an innovative environment for the movers and shakers of Florham Park that it serves.

The fully remodeled space was designed with the customer experience top-of-mind. Crafted to present an open space where employees can better serve customers in an approachable setting. The branch design offers a variety of modern-industrial elements, delivering the essence of the brand. 

Blue Foundry Bank looks forward to continuing to bring its dedication, service, and spirit to the consumers and small businesses in Florham Park. The Bank’s “Blue Is Here for You” personal touch service, delivered by dedicated, knowledgeable Universal Bankers, provides individualized support to help its customers get the most out of their banking relationship.

As a commitment to the communities where we live and work, Blue Foundry Bank is proud to announce that a donation has been made by the Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation to the following nonprofit organizations:

• Police Unity Tour - dedicated to raising awareness of Law Enforcement Officers who have died in the line of duty and to raising funds for the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial.
• Florham Park Education Foundation - committed to providing enhanced education programs for all students in the Florham Park School District.
• Halos for Angels - dedicated to providing relief, comfort, and support to families temporarily in crisis.

Provident Bank Donates Art Collection to the Monmouth Museum
Provident Bank announced the Bank recently donated a collection of more than 25 works of art to the Monmouth Museum in Lincroft, N.J.  The artwork, which was part of a larger collection on display at the Bank’s administrative headquarters, includes unique works, representing a wide range of mediums.

Columbia Bank Celebrates Its Newest Branch Opening With Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in Newark
On February 11, 2002 Columbia Bank hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the grand opening of its second branch in Newark, New Jersey. Deputy Mayor of Newark Ligia DeFretias, Carmen Mosca Chief of Staff for Council President Luis A. Quintana, bank executives
and others, gathered to mark the occasion which was held on-site at 260 Chestnut Street in the Ironbound section of the city. The branch which offers Portuguese and Spanish speaking capabilities, and full-service personal and business banking including drive-up amenities, is currently offering special promotions such as low fee/affordable mortgages, savings on closing costs, and cash bonuses for opening a personal or business checking account, designed to help businesses grow and the neighborhood flourish. Columbia Bank will continue its support of neighborhood communities with its “Banking for a Cause” program which started on December 20, 2021. For each new checking or savings account established at the location, $10 is donated, along with additional funds provided by the Bank, to one of the following Newarkbased charities/non-profits of the customer’s choice: ICC - Ironbound Community Center, Ironbound Soccer
Club, Love and Charity in Action and The Salvation Army Ironbound Boys & Girls Club.


From Left to Right (front row): Allyson Schlesinger, Executive Vice President, Head of Consumer Banking; Sandra Evering Brown, Commercial
Loan Regional Manager; Ivetiz Army, Branch Manager; Thomas J. Kemly, President, Chief Executive Officer; Ligia DeFretias, Deputy Mayor of
Newark; Maria Carmen Mosca, Chief of Staff for Council President Luis A. Quintana; Minoska Mateo, Community Development Manager.
From Left to Right (back row): Justin Jennings, Executive Vice President, Operations Officer; Matthew Crocco, 1st SVP, Head of Retail Banking:
Nuno Poitevin, Sr. Account Executive; Oliver Lewis, Executive Vice President, Head of Commercial Banking; Libuse Bajgerova, Consumer
Banking Market Manager; E. Thomas Allen, Sr. Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer. Image Courtesy of Columbia Bank.




Adult Day Center of Somerset County Tenth Annual Generations Gala Honored Jim Hughes of Unity Bank with the Steve Kalafer Community Leadership Award

Over 200 people gathered at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset on Tuesday evening to honor Unity Bank President & CEO James A. Hughes, a resident of Easton, Pa., with the first Steve Kalafer Community Leadership Award during the Adult Day Center of Somerset County’s (ADC) Tenth Annual Generations Gala.
 
The Generations Gala, which serves as one of the ADC’s most significant fundraisers of the year, honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to helping older and disabled adults, many of whom have an Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diagnosis, and their caregivers. This year’s Generations Gala’s proceeds were at an all-time high thanks to so many generous donors.

Comedian Joe Piscopo served as Master of Ceremonies and Ken Scherer of Hillsborough served as Chair. Piscopo and Scherer had the opportunity to share with Gala attendees the impact Hughes’ leadership has had at Unity Bank with building its base of customers and making it one of the best places to work in New Jersey. 

Hughes graduated from St. Mary’s College in May 1980 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting/Finance; and, in May 1983 earned his MBA in Finance from Seton Hall University. Hughes became a Certified Public Accountant in November 1983. In addition, he was a part-time accounting professor at the New Brunswick campus of Rutgers University. Mr. Hughes has served as an active member of the Independent Community Bankers of America Federal Delegate Board and the New Jersey Bankers Association in various officer positions since becoming Unity Bank’s President.

Hughes joined the Clinton-headquartered bank in December 2000 as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and was subsequently appointed to his current position in 2003. Prior to Unity Bank, Hughes was a Senior Vice President of Finance at Summit Bancorp in Princeton.

Hughes serves on the Board of Directors of the Center for Hope Hospice & Palliative Care in Scotch Plains and is a regular volunteer with many non-profits such as Grow-A-Row and The Salvation Army. He encourages the entire Unity Bank team to give back to the community and leads by example.  Unity Bank prides itself on customer service and is admired by vendors and customers, which was evidenced by the full ballroom, genuine enthusiasm and positive spirits of Gala attendees. 

The ADC of Somerset County recently renamed its Annual Gala Award as the Steve Kalafer Community Leadership Award to honor the memory of the late entrepreneur and longtime ADC supporter.

The Generations Gala is one of the Center’s two fundraising events. Proceeds from the Gala go towards operating expenses, which are the most difficult to raise. They are necessary to pay dedicated staff, take care of the facility, purchase program materials, and launch new therapeutic activities.  This year specifically the funds will be used to help the ADC return to its pre-pandemic level of service; continue to evaluate and evolve services to best meet the needs of the growing aging population; and continue their legacy of providing care for all those who may need its services regardless of financial limitations. 

Peapack-Gladstone Bank Celebrates Company’s 100th Anniversary through Volunteerism
As Peapack-Gladstone Bank celebrates their centennial, the Company continues to pursue the original mission established by its founders in 1921:  to provide value-added banking services and strength to the communities it serves.  To commemorate its 100th Anniversary and legacy, the Bank set a goal to complete 100 employee community service efforts in 2021. “It’s impressive that our people have far exceeded the high bar we set for our anniversary challenge, completing over 315 service projects,” said Doug Kennedy, President and CEO.  “What is humbling is the commitment and caring amongst our staff.” 
Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s foundation, is based on five core principles, and their Principle #4, “Invested in our Community” has never gone out of style.  Each and every year, the Bank supports hundreds of organizations through monetary donations, collections of tangible goods and countless hours of volunteerism.  The Company’s philanthropy and outreach have provided support services for Atlantic Healthcare Visiting Nurse, the United Way of Northern New Jersey, nourish.NJ, America’s Grow-a-Row and the United Way of Northern of New Jersey to name a few.  “We are proud of the efforts our employees have made to continue the Bank’s legacy of service through these volunteer outreach projects” said Rosanne Schwab, Public Relations Manager.  “Volunteering not only helps the nonprofit, it also gives our employees an opportunity to work together to help improve the quality of life in our municipalities.”  
The purpose of Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s volunteer program is to touch our communities, with one voice, and make a lasting impact as a community partner.  So, to end this year of celebration of service, the Bank will continue its commitment of moving forward, and giving back, in the next 100 years.

 
Manasquan Bank Unveils Community Room Meetings Space at Renovated Point Pleasant Branch
Manasquan Bank has unveiled its Community Room meeting space located within its recently renovated Point Pleasant branch. The latest state-of-the-art banking center now features a complimentary office/conference room space for local non-profit organizations and professional groups to conduct meetings. The Community Room is the ideal location to hold group meetings so people can come together and make positive change within their own community. The space features a flexible layout including a board room and private offices to suit every organizational need. The meeting space is available during and after branch hours, including evenings and weekends, and is completely free of charge. Manasquan Bank’s Point Pleasant branch and Community Room is located at 2307 Rt. 88, next to Quick Check. To learn more about Manasquan Bank or to make a reservation, visit www.manasquan.bank.

Unity Bank’s Car Show Raises $8,000 for Family Promise of Hunterdon and Warren Counties
Unity Bank has donated $8,000 to Family Promise of Hunterdon County and Family Promise of Warren County, the proceeds from the 15th Annual Cruisin’ Bob’s Classic Car Show held at the bank’s Clinton headquarters. The bank donates all proceeds from the car show to the non-profits, in addition to donating volunteer time to coordinate the event.

The show featured 160 classic cars competing in a variety of categories. The winners were: Best Custom Paint, Paul Sadowski of Byram, 1934 Ford 3 Window Coupe; Best Custom Interior, Bob Hollingshead of Hillsborough, 1955 Chevy Nomad; Chauffeur's Choice, Kevin and Gail Peach of Port Murray, 1937 Packard Super 8 Convertible; Rattiest Rat Rod, Philip Lincoln of Milford, 1949 International Harvester KB-3 Pickup Truck; Best Car for Lenny and Squiggy, Bruce Snyder of Washington, 1930 Ford A Pickup; Best Truck, Victor Donahue of Chester, 1956 Chevrolet Series 3100; Most Likely to Get a Speeding Ticket, Nick Zripko of Pittstown, 1968 Camaro Z28; Coolest Motorcycle, Peter Koop of Belvidere, 2000 Corsair Scout; Best Getaway Car, Jeff Neary of Hillsborough, 2018 Ford GT; Best Road Trip Car, Bob Hollingshead of Hillsborough, 1955 Chevy Nomad; Worst Car Mileage, Nick Zripko of Pittstown, 1968 Camaro Z28; Best First Date Car, Pam Vette of Bridgewater, 1991 Chevy Corvette; James Bond Car of Choice, Ron and Gloria Peles of Stewartsville, 1963 Studebaker Avanti; Most Likely to be at Woodstock, David Santini of Washington, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible; Oldest Car, Frank Cushing, Jr. of Washington, 1927 Ford T Rat Rod; Youngest Car, Charles Dahms of Pittstown, 2020 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Red Eye; People’s Choice, Denise Buchanon-Virgo of Whitehouse Station, 2016 Jeep Wrangler; Family Promise Choice, Vince Bassani of Califon, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette; and Unity Bank Choice, Harry Santa of Belvidere, 1961 Pontiac Bonneville.

Family Promise of Hunterdon County and Family Promise of Warren County provide services to both help overcome and prevent homelessness through the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) – a network of congregations and volunteers who provide overnight/weekend shelter, home-cooked meals, and companionship to families who enter the program. Comprehensive case management, licensed counseling services and a donation program are also available.

Spencer Savings Bank Donates $75,000 to the American Red Cross NJ For Hurricane Ida Relief Efforts
Spencer Savings Bank donated $75,000 to the American Red Cross NJ to support Hurricane Ida relief efforts.
During the one month since Hurricane Ida made landfall, the Red Cross and its partners have worked tirelessly to assist those negatively impacted by the storm. In New Jersey, more than 335 Red Cross volunteers have been working around the clock to help families affected by the devastating flooding brought on by Ida.
Since September 1 in New Jersey, the Red Cross has provided more than 2,070 overnight shelter stays and served nearly 20,670 meals and snacks; distributed more than 11,620 clean-up kits and 12,069 other relief supplies like comfort kits, rakes, tarps and more; provided health or emotional support to more than 2,124 people; and provided 4,355 people from 1,502 families with disaster recovery support through casework.

Lakeland Bank Awards $15,000 Grant to St. Joseph’s Health Foundation
Lakeland Bank announced it awarded a $15,000 Community Impact Grant to St. Joseph’s Health Foundation. This was the third grant issued as part of a three-year commitment to support the expansion of pediatric dentistry services at the hospital to support underserved children living in Paterson, N.J. and the surrounding area. 


Lakeland Bank associates Tim Matteson, Roxanne Camejo, Perry Lighty and Debra Zimmerly recently met with Dr. Ephros, Chairman of Dentistry, Dr. DeSimone, Director of Pediatric Dental, and Mark Cantine, Director of Individual Giving, to present a $15,000 grant to support St. Joseph’s Pediatric Dentistry Division.


Columbia Bank’s Annual Food Drive Raised Funds and Meals Throughout New Jersey
Through the assistance of its team members and the generous residents of New Jersey, Columbia Bank proudly raised financial donations and several hundred food items at its annual fooddrive. By providing nourishment to those in need around the state, Columbia Bank maintains its long-standing history of aiding residents in the communities it serves.

The recipients of the donations and totals are as follows:
CUMAC - Paterson, NJ
Center for Food Action - Saddle Brook, NJ and
Simuel Whitefield Simmons Organization - Somerset, NJ
Over 50 shopping bags of food and over $1,200
Maple Shade Food Bank - Maple Shade, NJ
$250 in monetary donations
South Jersey Dream Center - Thorofare, NJ
$100 and 150 pounds of non-perishable food
St. James Food Pantry - Woodbridge, NJ
Over $500 in monetary donations
Starfish Food Pantry - Plainfield, NJ
500+ items of food and $160

Team Members of Columbia Bank Deliver Donations from Annual Food Drive to CUMAC in Paterson, NJ. Photo Courtesy of Columbia Bank.


Manasquan Bank Donates More than $10K to Local Non-Profits during Days of Giving

Manasquan Bank and their banking patrons across New Jersey rallied together to donate over $10,000 to local non-profits state-wide during the Bank’s 1st Annual Days of Giving. Recipients included Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal & Northern New Jersey, Dottie’s House, Luke's Helping Hand, Greater Tuckerton Food Pantry, and the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge and South Amboy.

In keeping with Manasquan Bank’s community focus, Days of Giving calculated 15% of all loose coin redemptions and donated the amount received to the selected non-profits. Additionally, the Bank offered exclusive stickers and daily giveaways building up to their main event, Community Day, on Sept. 18, 2021. Community Day, an annual family-friendly event, is hosted in downtown Manasquan as a celebration of the Bank’s anniversary and commitment to serving NJ communities.


Spencer Savings Bank Supports Higher Education With Donation to Passaic County Community College (PCCC)

Spencer Savings Bank recently made a donation of $7,500 to Passaic County Community College (PCCC) to help provide financial support to low-income, minority students seeking higher education. The donation will be used to provide low-income students, enrolled in the Student Support Services (SSS) and PCCC Success programs, with financial emergency assistance awards. The awards are used to help pay for emergency costs dealing with a variety of issues (rent/housing, utilities, food, transportation, medicine, childcare) or for educational expenses (tuition/fees, books/supplies or technology).

Blue Foundry Bank Opens Reimagined Branch Location in Lyndhurst, NJ

Blue Foundry Bank crafted banking experience, announced the reopening of its reimagined branch location at 753 Ridge Road in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. The new design by DMR Architects reflects the bank’s reinvention and creates an unmatched banking experience for the modern-day movers and shakers of Lyndhurst that it serves. 

Blue Foundry Bank looks forward to continuing to bring its dedication, service, and spirit to the communities and small businesses in Lyndhurst using its “Blue Is Here for You” service. Delivered by dedicated, knowledgeable Universal Bankers, clients will enjoy individualized support to help them meet their financial goals and get the most out of their Blue Foundry banking relationship.

To celebrate Blue Foundry Bank’s grand reopening in Lyndhurst, donations were made to: 

• Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst in support of Food Security: the Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst unites its members in activities that promote the ethical, intellectual, and social standards of the community. With this donation, they will help provide for neighbors in need of food and essential items.
• North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad: a volunteer organization that has been serving the Borough and protecting its residents since 1972.
• Lyndhurst Police Emergency Squad: a nonprofit ambulance and rescue service comprised of loyal volunteers who respond to more than 1900 emergency calls a year, serving the community since 1942.

Blue Foundry Bank is a place where things are made, purpose is formed, and ideas are crafted. Dedicated to outstanding customer experience and personal support, Blue Foundry Bank offers a comprehensive line of products and services including personal and business banking and lending, to support clients’ financial goals and investment for growth. With its Universal Bankers acting more as partners, the process will be less about banking and more about living.

In the midst of the back-to-school season, Kearny Bank’s Caldwell office hosted a donation event to benefit youngsters in and around Paterson who receive services from the Eva’s Village community assistance organization. Bank clients and employees were invited to participate by donating backpacks, and a total of 40 of these were collected and then donated to the nonprofit.

Spencer Savings Bank Awards Almost $25,000 in Scholarships To Local Students
Spencer Savings Bank has awarded almost $25,000 in scholarships to high school and middle school students from 32 local schools in Bergen, Passaic, Union, Mercer, Morris and Essex counties. To date almost $500,000 has been awarded since the program first started in 2002.

“As a community bank, investing in our local youth for a brighter future, is part of our mission,” stated Jose B. Guerrero, Spencer’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This past school year has been an especially challenging one. We are proud to support these scholarship winners and congratulate them on all their academic achievements! May your perseverance and strength carry you through all of life experiences. Congratulations to the Class of 2021!
Students from various New Jersey school districts, within Spencer’s market area, received scholarships. The winners were selected by the school’s guidance department. High School students each received a $1,000 check, and middle school students each received a tax-advantaged Coverdell Education Savings Account (CESA) with $500 deposited to encourage future saving. Each student received a scholarship certificate from the bank. Scholarship recipients attend the below New Jersey schools. Please join us in congratulating them!



Bergen County: Aizar Imran (Elmwood Park Memorial High School), Raquel Roca (Garfield High School), Brooke Scarcella (Lodi High School), Tyler Laski (Lyndhurst High School), Briana Marie Vullo (Saddle Brook High School), Konrad Baj (Wallington High School), Nicholas Parmi (Wood-Ridge Jr/Sr High School), Melanie Colon (Elmwood Park’s Memorial Middle School), Aiden Peterson (Garfield Middle School), James Campoverdde (Lodi’s Thomas Jefferson Middle School), Rachel Pimentel (Lyndhurst Middle School), Aleiya Moore (Saddle Brook Middle School), Natalia Wargala (Wallington Jr/Sr High School), Bridget Marquez (Wood-Ridge Jr/Sr High School)

Passaic County: Chloe Popowich (Clifton High School), Giana Buchicchio (Wayne Hills High School), Ayah Bazzi (Clifton’s Woodrow Wilson Middle School), Destiny Rivera (Wayne’s Schuyler-Colfax Middle School)

Union County: Joseph Santoro (Cranford High School), Anan Yousef (Elizabeth’s Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy), Valentina Schiavone (Union Senior High School), Andrew Pink (Westfield High School), Henry Guillen Jr. (Elizabeth’s Mabel G.
Holmes #5), Ashley Diaz (Garwood’s Lincoln Middle School)

Essex County: Angelina Lee Monaco (North Caldwell’s West Essex Regional High School), Eyad Ahmad (Nutley High School), Jessica Metry (North Caldwell’s West Essex Middle School), Mark Rivera (Nutley’s John H. Walker Middle School)

Mercer County: Monica Wang (Ewing High School), Nathan Myers (Ewing Fisher Middle School)

Morris County: Jacqueline Baldarrago (Parsippany Hills High School), Van Dang (Parsippany Central Middle School)

Manasquan Bank Charitable Foundation Presents 18 Charities with Grants at Recipient Event
The Manasquan Bank Charitable Foundation, an affiliate of Manasquan Bank, brought 18 local organizations together for its second quarterly Charitable Foundation meeting of 2021. The grant recipient event was a chance for community members to learn more about Manasquan Bank’s philosophy for its future success and commitment to its community-based partners. It was also a great opportunity for each organization receiving a foundation grant to tell their story and explain how the new grant will assist in the achievement of their overall mission.

Manasquan Bank Chairman, President and CEO, James S. Vaccaro, along with the Foundation’s trustees kicked off the morning’s event, where they provided an overview of the mission and strategic efforts of the Bank and its Foundation. “Charitable giving has been central to the core values of Manasquan Bank since its very beginnings,” said Vaccaro. “We recognize those who share our passion for building a better community and we are privileged to provide them with financial assistance”.

Notably, at the recipient event, those receiving an annual grant from the foundation included Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, Stop Drowning Now, Monmouth Arts, Collier Youth Services, Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge and South Amboy, Community Nursery School, Arc of Monmouth County, Bayshore Center at Bivalve, Tigger House Foundation, InfoAge Science and History Museum, Interfaith Health & Support Services of Southern Ocean County, Inc., The Valerie Fund, Fighting H.A.R.D Foundation, Association for Multiple Impaired Blind (AMIB), Visiting Nurse Association of Central NJ, Autism Family Services of NJ, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal and Northern NJ.

In addition to the quarterly Foundation meetings, Manasquan Bank will begin hosting town hall-style meetings for its existing clients, as well as potential business clients, each month after hours at a rotating branch location. Additional event details are forthcoming.

Lakeland Bank Awards Over $165,000 in Scholarships to Local Students
Lakeland Bank was pleased to distribute over $165,000 in scholarships to high school seniors graduating from high schools in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Ocean, Union, and Warren counties in New Jersey and Orange County, New York. The funds were raised at the 2020 Annual Scholarship Golf Outing and also support college scholarship programs.

Lakeland Bank Raised Over $65,000 at Sussex County Golf Classic
Lakeland Bank is pleased to announce that more than $65,000 was raised at its 40th Annual Sussex County Golf Classic to support local charities.

1st Bank of Sea Isle City Loan Department Supports Two Local Charities


The Loan Center Staff donated nourishing food items and household provisions to Saint Maximillian Kolbe Food Pantries, which through the Saint Maximilian Kolbe Parish of Marmora feeds families of need in its community.
Beacon Animal Rescue recently opened a new veterinary clinic in their facility, located at 701 Butter Road in Ocean View.  The clinic services cats and dogs from the rescue, as well as those of adopters, volunteers and the general public.  The Loan Center Staff purchased necessary medical equipment, supplies and treats to support the clinic’s efforts in caring for animals in Cape May County.  
1st Bank of Sea Isle City, Vice President/Chief Lending Officer, Joyce Allegretto said “I am pleased that through the generosity of our Lending Staff, we were able to assist these two worthy organizations.”

Pictured (Top): Dawn Evans, Mary Ellen Lindsay, Deborah Dunn, Joyce Allegretto, Joe Krajicek, Lauren Barnhart.
Pictured (Bottom): Tracie Fitzgerald holding Loan Center Mascot Vino, Tracey Smedley, Vet Tech, Dr. Susanne Poff, DVM, Kathleen Dever, Sheryl Zappala and Bridget Cardwell. 

THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ELMER APPRECIATES THEIR EMPLOYEES

On Wednesday, June 2, 2021, The First National Bank of Elmer celebrated their hard-working employees.  Mr. Softee and his famous jingle made the rounds to each of the bank’s locations with an afternoon treat for all.

Spencer Savings Bank Helps Feed Needy Community Members With Eva’s Village Donation

Spencer Savings Bank recently made a $2,500 donation to Eva’s Village to help feed community members. The organization’s Community Kitchen is serving to-go breakfast and lunch to over 400 individuals daily. This is in addition to serving 3 prepared meals a day to those residing in their recovery and sheltering programs.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the organization has adapted to keep life-saving programs and services open to ensure those who rely on them receive the help they need. Since switching from sit-down dining to meals to-go, their Community Kitchen has been busier than ever. They are serving these meals as the pandemic forces more of their community members to choose between food, medicine and rent.

Provident Bank Employees Raise Funds for Women Rising
Provident Bank, a leading New Jersey-based financial institution, announced it recently held a Jeans Day fundraiser to benefit Women Rising, a Jersey City-based provider of domestic abuse support programs in Hudson County. Provident Bank employees donated more than $3,800 to the organization whose mission is to assist women and their families to achieve self-sufficiency and live safe, productive and fulfilling lives through social services, economic development and advocacy services.



Pictured (L-R) Stacey Kavanagh, FVP/Market Manager, Provident Bank; Sister Roseann Mazzeo, Executive Director, Women Rising; Sonali Jhurani, Director, Fund Development, Women Rising; Frances Montagnino, VP/Market Manager, Provident Bank.

The brook trout is native to New Jersey. It was designated as the official state fish when Governor James J. Florio signed Assembly Bill 2608 on January 8, 1992 at Hopatcong Middle School, Hopatcong, New Jersey. Also called speckled trout, brookies, or speckles, brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) live under water conditions that are cool, clean and pure (they cannot survive in polluted water).

MagyarBank Charitable Foundation Awards $26,696.50 to Various Central New Jersey Non-Profit Organizations 
The MagyarBank Charitable Foundation recently awarded $26,656.50 in grants to eight non-profit organizations from the Central New Jersey region.  Awarded funds will be used to support and improve the lives of local residents.  The Foundation provides grants to programs supporting education, affordable housing, youth programs and health and human services.


 
From Left to Right: John Fitzgerald, President & CEO, Magyar Bank; Kathleen Carlucci, Executive Director, Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park; Leonard Sendelsky, Chairman, Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park; Thomas Lankey, Chairman, Magyar Bank Board of Directors & Mayor of Township of Edison. 



(3-21)

COLUMBIA BANK FOUNDATION DONATES $50,000 TO THE CHRISTIAN HEALTH CARE CENTER
The Columbia Bank Foundation recently donated $50,000 to the Christian Health Care Center (CHCC) to address the urgent needs of senior care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding will assist with CHCC’s efforts to maintain necessary personal protective equipment, testing kits, and cleaning supplies while ensuring appropriate technology for client socialization and remote mental health services. A special designation of $25,000 was made to fund vaccine distribution. 

Spencer Savings Bank Hosts “Warm Up This Winter” Drive For Bridges Outreach Nonprofit



Spencer Savings Bank hosted a “Warm Up This Winter” drive in support of Bridges Outreach, a non-profit organization headquartered in Union County. The bank and employees donated hundreds of new socks, gloves, hats and scarves to help keep their clients nice and warm this winter season. Contactless shopping was done with items purchased at various stores via an Amazon Wishlist.

Bridges ends homelessness through volunteer-driven outreach and individual case management focusing on health, housing and independence. They form relationships with those experiencing homelessness while meeting their most urgent needs. To learn more about the non-profit and help, visit them online at bridgesoutreach.org.

Peapack-Gladstone Bank Helps Kids Get Back to School

To support the United Way of Northern New Jersey Tools for School program, Peapack-Gladstone Bank coordinated a multicultural virtual concert which raised a $2,530 in donations and participant purchase of 1,615 school supply items shipped to students in need.  In its 12th year of support for the program, the Bank  has made significant contributions, helping students obtain the resources and supplies needed to start off the school year in a positive mindset, ready to learn.

Unity Bank Launches Partnership with NID Housing Counseling Agency and Donates $5,000 for Community Education Programs

Unity Bank recently donated $5,000 to the NID Housing Counseling Agency (NID-HCA), a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved national network of housing counselors and community-development consultants with offices in Plainfield and Allentown, Pa. Unity is launching a partnership with the agency to supplement the bank’s Low-Moderate Income Mortgage Program.

Provident Bank Opens New Wyckoff Branch; Names Cornicelli Banking Center Manager
Branch marks the bank’s eighth location in Bergen County
Provident Bank, a leading New Jersey-based financial institution, has announced the opening of its newest branch at 345 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff, New Jersey. The modern, full-service banking facility offers customers a welcoming environment with convenient features that include a drive-through, ATM, night depository, and Saturday hours. The branch is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Thursday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; and Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. 

Maureen Cornicelli of Park Ridge, New Jersey, was named Assistant Vice President, Banking Center Manager of the new Wyckoff branch. Ms. Cornicelli is responsible for driving deposit and small business loan growth for the branch, developing sales strategies, ensuring superior customer service, as well as overseeing the staff and operational integrity of the branch.  

Ms. Cornicelli has more than 35 years’ experience in retail banking, and most recently served as a Financial Service Officer/Branch Manager with Columbia Bank. She has also held branch management positions with JP Morgan Chase, Bank of New York, and Valley National Bank.   

Spencer Savings Bank Supports Mental Health Initiatives, Donates $7,500 to CBH Care
Spencer Savings Bank recently made a $7,500 donation to CBH Care, in support of mental health services in its community. The nonprofit organization is a leader in behavioral health care services for New Jersey and Bergen County, offering compassionate and mental health services to thousands in Northern New Jersey.

Unity Bank Donates $34,200 to Food Pantries in NJ and Lehigh Valley
Bergen, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset, Union and Warren Counties in N.J. and Northampton County, Penn. Food Banks Receive Support
 
Unity Bank and its employees have donated a record total of $34,200 to 19 food pantries in New Jersey and Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. The funds were contributed by Unity Bank employees and matched by the bank as part of a special annual holiday community service project that was started more than 10 years ago.
 
Donations of $1,800 will be presented to a local food bank by each of Unity’s 19 community branches, including: FISH Hospitality Program in Piscataway, serving Middlesex, Union, and Somerset Counties, from Middlesex Branch; Flemington Area Food Pantry from Flemington Branch; St. Vincent De Paul Society from North Plainfield Branch; Franklin Township Food Bank from Somerset Branch; Highland Park Community Food Pantry from Highland Park Branch; Home First Interfaith Housing & Family Services of Plainfield from Scotch Plains Branch; Linden Interfaith Network for Community Service from Linden Branch; River of Life Food Pantry of Phillipsburg from Phillipsburg Branch; Open Cupboard Food Pantry of Clinton from Clinton Branch; Readington Area Starfish from Whitehouse Branch; St. Paul Food Pantry of Ramsey from the Ramsey Branch; Feeding Hands of Raritan from Somerville Branch; Sacred Heart Social Concerns Ministry in South Plainfield from South Plainfield Branch; Alliance Center for Independence Food Pantry in Edison from Edison Branch; Union Food Pantry from Union Branch; Helping Hands Food Pantry of Hillsdale from Emerson Branch; Washington Community Food Pantry from Unity’s Washington Branch; New Bethany Ministries of Bethlehem from the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Branch; and Easton Area Community Center from Forks Township, Pennsylvania Branch.


Help for the holidays: Wells Fargo donates $50K to Fulfill food bank
How’s this for an early present for those in need: Wells Fargo surprised representatives from Fulfill, a food bank serving the Jersey Shore, with a $50,000 donation to assist the organization with its ongoing efforts to address food insecurity in the region.

The funding will enable Fulfill, the nonprofit run by former Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, to provide 150,000 meals to residents in Monmouth and Ocean counties. The donation is in addition to the $25,000 Wells Fargo previously donated to Fulfill earlier in 2020. Guadagno was grateful.

Wells Fargo has a long commitment to supporting people facing hunger through its longstanding relationship with Feeding America, the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States, and its affiliate organizations, which includes Fulfill.

Fulfill has served an additional 3 million meals since the pandemic hit the Jersey Shore.

Pre-COVID, Fulfill was serving 136,000 people, 50,000 of them children. Fulfill has seen a 40% increase in the demand for food since the onset of the crisis. Today, Fulfill is feeding 215,000 people, and 70,000 of them are children.

Earlier this year, Wells Fargo launched a nationwide Drive-Up Food Bank program, in which the company helped reach families facing hunger due to the COVID-19 pandemic by working with local Feeding America member food banks to distribute food at some of the company’s branches and corporate locations.

To extend this effort during the holidays, Wells Fargo is directing grants as part of its “Many Hearts. One Community.” holiday campaign to Feeding America food banks around the country — ensuring there is food on the tables for people who need it most — and fulfilling the company’s commitment to help provide 82 million meals to families in need.

Wells Fargo’s “Many Hearts. One Community.” holiday campaign can be found here.

Fulfill, formerly the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, moves more than 1 million pounds of food each month for families in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Fulfill feeds children, seniors, veterans and the working poor. Fulfill serves pantries and shelters, provides hot meals for children after school and sends food home for those same children over the weekend during the school year. Fulfill also provides additional services to help our neighbors improve their overall situation.

Spencer Savings Bank Supports Mental Health Initiatives, Donates $7,500 to CBH Care
Spencer Savings Bank recently made a $7,500 donation to CBH Care, in support of mental health services in its community. The nonprofit organization is a leader in behavioral health care services for New Jersey and Bergen County, offering compassionate and mental health services to thousands in Northern New Jersey.

Peapack-Gladstone Bank Brings Holiday Cheer
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select Market:  PGC) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank are proud to report the Bank has partnered with the United Way of Northern New Jersey for its annual Gifts of the Season holiday drive.  During these challenging times, the need is greater than ever; so for the 12th consecutive year, the Bank coordinated a response - but with a new twist!  Employees had the opportunity to browse through a custom-designed virtual shopping site to purchase toys, clothing and necessities for local needy children and teens.

Through the generosity of Peapack-Gladstone Bank employees, a total of 977 items were purchased totaling approximately $7,000 in value!  A generous response, especially during these trying times.  Through their partnership with the United Way, the Bank has joined in the spirit of the season, assuring local youth have a holiday that is merry and bright.  

Throughout the years, Peapack-Gladstone Bank has been dedicated in supporting New Jersey communities by being proactive in doing their part for those that are less fortunate.  The Bank looks forward to continuing its community outreach in the New Year and thanks everyone who contributed for their generosity, bringing smiles to the faces of those families most in need.

Columbia Bank Toy Drive Supports Families in Need
Employee Collection Effort Gathers 
Approximately 500 Holiday Items and $4,000 in Gift Cards

Columbia Bank has recently completed its Annual Corporate Holiday Toy Drive for children in New Jersey. Coordinated by Team Columbia Volunteers, the effort benefitted six organizations across the state, including Boys and Girls Club of Passaic and Paterson, Department of Child Protection and Permanency, Greater Newark Conservancy, New Destiny Community Development Corporation, New Hope Ministries, and Toys for Tots. Approximately 500 gifts and $4,000 in gift cards were donated.

Shown are some of the Team Columbia volunteers who helped collect, wrap, and distribute the holiday gifts to the participating organizations.