St. Mary’s Bank recently presented a $3,000 grant to the Holy Cross Family Learning Center (HCFLC) in Manchester. The grant will be used to support English as a Second Language classes for the refugees and people of diverse cultures who gather to study English, begin their path to citizenship, and develop workforce skills through hands-on training.

The grant was awarded from the credit union’s 1908 Fund. 1908 funds are awarded for the purpose of providing programs and support to organizations to move families and individuals forward toward financial independence.

“Learning English removes barriers and can be the first step towards financial independence,” said Judi Window, St. Mary’s Bank’s Community Outreach Coordinator and Vice Chairperson of the HCFLC Board of Directors. “Grants awarded from the 1908 Fund honor the credit union’s rich history and mission of providing access to financial products and services for all, including immigrant populations,” said Window.

St. Mary’s Bank was founded in 1908 and primarily served the French immigrant population on the West Side of Manchester. Today, St. Mary’s Bank continues to support financial literacy and education for the diverse residents of Greater Manchester.

Sr. Jacqueline Verville, Holy Cross Family Learning Center’s Founder and Executive Director, said “This grant will surely benefit the students we serve who are striving to master English skills and the U.S. culture. We are a donation-driven program and are always most grateful for any funding.”

 

Sr. Jacqueline Verville, HCFLC Executive Director, and Judi Window, St. Mary’s Bank Community Outreach Coordinator.