The Peoples Savings Bank Donates Over 100 Pairs of Gloves and Mittens to Champaign County Schools and Shelters

Employee-led Project Renews Spirit of Giving to Help Keep Children Warm During Holiday Season

JAN 23, 2012 – The Peoples Savings Bank of Urbana, OH, completed its annual hat, mitten, and scarf donation drive by collecting cold-weather apparel for Graham, Urbana, West Liberty, and Mechanicsburg school districts, along with giving to Head Start, The Gingerbread House, and The Caring Kitchen.  Over 100 pairs were donated by bank employees and loyal customers, making 2011 one of the most successful campaigns in program history.  Items were donated between Thanksgiving and second week of December in anticipation of colder weather.  Started in 2004, the bank’s campaign has collected almost 500 pairs for donation to needy children and families throughout Champaign County.

Committee Chairperson Kathy Fitzwater spearheaded the campaign among fellow employees for the third consecutive year and attributed the overwhelming response of giving to the generous attitude of neighbors helping neighbors in the local community.

“We had a terrific turnout this year and were able to help the local school districts needing assistance,” said Fitzwater.  “That made all of us feel really good about the project and we plan on continuing the campaign once again next winter.”

Employees of The Peoples Savings Bank erect a Christmas Tree in the front lobby shortly after Thanksgiving and ask customers and fellow employees to bring in their new or gently-used hats, mittens, and scarves for placement under the tree.  Just prior to the winter holiday, collected items are delivered to their destinations by bank employees to ensure children have cold-weather gear for winter.

“Some customers of The Peoples Savings Bank went one step further by hand-knitting items for donation,” said project Co-Chairperson Nichole Bloemhard.  “Knowing we have customers choosing to put their own personal time and talents to work is a further example of community activism making a difference one person at a time.”

The Peoples Savings Bank of Urbana, OH, is full-service local community bank with two offices serving the residents of Champaign County.  With assets of $98 million, The Peoples Savings Bank was chartered in 1892 by the State of Ohio and is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Peoples offers a full array of modern financial services – including personal and business accounts, electronic banking, bill-pay, ATM, auto and mortgage loans, and a host of other financial services.