Supporting the annual Seaway Bank and Trust “Trim-a-Tree” program for needy families are Customer Service Supervisor Melda Barker, president & CEO Walter E. Grady and VP Marketing Officer Claudette Harris.
For most people the holiday season is a time for celebration. But for many others – who may be struggling to keep the heat on – buying gifts is simply impossible. With community assistance groups also hurting in tough economic times, Seaway Bank and Trust Company has stepped up its “Trim-a-Tree” program to help families in need.
The Seaway “Trim-a-Tree” program will provided holiday gifts of food, toys and clothing for 19 local families, an increase over previous years. Since 1990, toy and coat collection boxes are placed annually at each branch, and visitors who make a cash contribution are invited to place an ornament on the bank’s lobby tree. Donors are identified on the ornament, and the funds raised are used to purchase food and gifts. Local churches and staff often help to refer the families in need. The bank works closely with the families to clarify clothing sizes and identify any special requests.
Seaway employees were the first to make donations, but bank customers and visitors have stepped up to help.
“These activities provide a way to share with those less fortunate. We know some families struggle to make ends meet during the holidays, and our ‘Trim-a-Tree’ helps to fill that gap,” said Seaway Bank president and CEO Walter E. Grady. While the need is great, Mr. Grady acknowledges that this is a big-hearted community. “Each year Seaway receives a lot of support for this outreach. When the gifts are delivered, we all feel the spirit of the season—and that’s what it’s all about,” he added.
Seaway Bank and Trust Company Seaway Bank and Trust Company is a full-service commercial bank that emphasizes quality service and community commitment. One of the largest Black-owned banks in the nation, Seaway’s strength lies in its adherence to sound, community-based banking practices with accessible customer service and a commitment to local initiatives. Established in 1965, Seaway Bank serves the banking and credit needs in underserved and minority neighborhoods. Assets have risen from $5 million during the first year of operation to more than $625 million today.
Seaway Bank has nine branches in the Chicago area, a branch in Milwaukee (WI) and additional foreign currency exchange centers and banking outlets at O’Hare and Midway airports. Seaway Bank ATMs are available at all Seaway branches and at other key locations in the city.
For more information about Seaway Bank, call VP/Marketing Officer Claudette Harris at 773-602-4865 or visit www.seawaybank.us. Seaway Bank and Trust Company is an FDIC member and an Equal Housing Lender.