For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD — April is Community Banking Month, and for the past several years, Heritage Bank — with locations in Marshfield and Spencer — has honored this month by giving back to the community. This year’s chosen charity was Shirley’s House of Hope. Shirley’s House of Hope is a domestic violence shelter for women.

The bank locations set up displays in their lobbies and provided an opportunity for customers and employees alike to dispose of confidential paperwork by offering shredding services in exchange for a donation to Shirley’s. On April 29 the bank staff held a cookout, and for a monetary donation or an item on the wish list, patrons were served a brat or hot dog, bag of chips, and soda.

Julie Cravillion from Shirley’s House of Hope was thankful of the donations, saying, “We are overwhelmed by Heritage Bank’s willingness to give so much to the women and children hurting from domestic violence at Shirley’s. Thank you for being so generous.”

Items collected had a value of over $700 in addition to a cash donation of $775.

Martin Reinhart, president of Heritage Bank, said, “There are critical needs in our area, and our bank and our employees contribute to a number of dedicated community organizations to help fill these needs through donations and volunteer efforts year-round. During the month of April, we have a heightened effort to do so, and each year our staff makes a recommendation to support one of these organizations. I am always proud of the commitment and contributions made by our employees, customers, and community members that help make a positive difference in people’s lives through this effort.”