BRISTOL — National Bank of Middlebury’s staff recently held a “Casual Jeans Friday” to benefit Bristol’s Have A Heart Community Food Shelf. About once a month the bank holds a “casual wear day” to benefit a nonprofit that the bank cannot make a regular financial commitment to. On these days, staff members are encouraged to give a small amount in order to dress casually.
“This is a way the staff can step up to make a contribution when the bank could not, and dress casually as a reward,” explained bank marketing director Cathy Trudel.
The Have A Heart Community Food Shelf is a food pantry serving local residents in need year round in Bristol and the surrounding towns of Lincoln, Monkton, New Haven and Starksboro.
“During the holiday season, people’s generosity tends to be highlighted. However, we must remember that the need is on-going,” said Grover Usilton, a senior vice president at the bank. “We’re proud to have such a generous and caring staff, and of the contributions made, not only to the food shelf, but to local good works of all kinds throughout the year.”
At a check passing last month, NBOM facilities manager Joel Bouvier represented both the bank and the Bristol Fire Department, of which he is a member. The fire department also amassed cash donations along with 2,300 pounds of food items for the food shelf.