Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | June 22, 2020 | Worcester Business Journal S43 Special Advertising Section rollstonebank.com • 978-396-1863 D ear Neighbor, In recent months, we've lived through some of our community's darkest days, while experiencing some of our brightest moments. We've proudly witnessed our neighbors going above and beyond, rising to this moment to save lives, to support those on the front lines, and to do everything possible to help keep each other safe. At Rollstone Bank & Trust, we've been there right along with you, helping in any way we can. While we had to change our banking operations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic for the safety of our customers, colleagues and communities, our commitment to meeting our customers' financial needs – and to our neighbors – remained as strong as ever. Our employees went out of their way to ensure every customer had access to their accounts, and to the advice, guidance and financial resources they needed to help them manage the challenges of the coronavirus' impact on our economy. Supporting Local Business But perhaps no sector of our economy was harder hit by this pandemic than our local businesses. Again, Rollstone was here to help. As a community bank, we know firsthand how vital small business is to this region and we're dedicated to doing everything we can to help them make it through these challenging times – and thrive in the future. To that end, we've actively participated in the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to aid our country's businesses. In less than two weeks, Rollstone processed hundreds of PPP loans for businesses in our communities – with nearly $36 million committed to date – to help them keep their doors open and their workers employed. Helping the Helpers – and Our Neighbors Keeping frontline healthcare workers safe during the height of COVID-19 outbreak was also vital, as communities across our nation struggled with shortages of personal protective equipment, particularly masks. Once again, Rollstone was there to help. One of 20 banks participating in a statewide effort that saw 79,000 masks donated to different hospitals, we donated 2,000 masks to UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, as an expression of community support and thanks. We also spearheaded a fundraising drive to help our communities' most vulnerable members –including children and the elderly – cope with COVID-19. Working with leaders from across the region to identify gaps in critical services, we found that the need varied from town to town: From helping provide internet access to Leominster students and feeding Fitchburg students and families to meeting the need for food, personal care and other essential items across the region. Initially, Rollstone donated $19,000 to kick off this effort. Our customers, partners and neighbors contributed another $10,000, enabling us to provide support to 11 different organizations and improving the lives of those in need. You're welcome to join our community effort. Please send your donation to Rollstone Charitable Foundation, 24 Monument Square, Leominster, MA 01453. Checks should have "COVID-19 Relief Fund" in the memo line of the check. Because by working together, we will get through this difficult time and come out the other side stronger than ever. Rollstone Bank & Trust will be there with you every step of the way. Sincerely, Martin F. Connors Jr. President & Chief Executive Officer We've never been prouder to be part of this community.

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