Reading, MA — In response to the extraordinary demand on local food pantries this season, Reading Cooperative Bank (RCB) has made additional donations to 10 food pantries serving residents throughout the region. These contributions come at a critical time, helping ensure that individuals and families facing food insecurity receive the support they need.
At Reading Cooperative Bank, community is a core pillar—and as a depositor-owned institution, the bank’s mission is shaped by the voices of its customer-owners.
“Because our customers are our owners, their guidance drives every part of what we do,” said Julie Thurlow, President and CEO of RCB. “Through our annual charitable vote, our customers help decide how we invest in our communities. This recent support for local food pantries reflects that collective commitment.”
In addition to financial contributions, the bank dedicates more than 1,000 hours annually to community service, guided by depositor input on causes they care most about. This unique ownership structure allows Reading Cooperative Bank to focus on long-term community impact rather than short-term profits.
“We don’t answer to outside shareholders,” Thurlow added. “Our customers elect our Board of Directors and help shape our priorities. This community-first model means we can quickly respond to urgent needs, like the growing demand at food pantries.”
RCB’s donations will benefit food pantries in Andover, Burlington, Lawrence, Lynnfield, Melrose, North Reading, Reading, Wakefield, Wilmington, and Woburn, reinforcing the bank’s ongoing commitment to support the well-being of the people and neighborhoods it serves.
For more details about Reading Cooperative Bank’s community efforts and how depositors can have their say, visit www.readingcoop.com/community.
About Reading Cooperative Bank:
Reading Cooperative Bank is a depositor owned co-operative founded in 1886. This community-centric North Shore financial service provider has branches in Andover, Burlington, Lawrence, Lynn, Lynnfield, Melrose, Nahant, North Reading, Reading, Wakefield, and Wilmington. They also operate teaching branches at Northeast Metro Tech in Wakefield (open to the public) and at Reading Memorial High School (students and staff only), as well as an online branch at www.readingcoop.com.
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