Cambridge, Mass. – East Cambridge Savings Bank (ECSB) organized and supported several charitable initiatives during the holiday season and early winter months. These efforts addressed food insecurity, family needs, and community well-being during a period marked by economic disruption and heightened demand for local services.
In response to the disruption of SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown, the bank organized food drives at each of its banking centers and made monetary donations to 12 local food pantries, $1,000 to each, across its market area. These combined efforts helped ensure that individuals and families facing food insecurity continued to have access to essential nutrition at a critical time.
“During the holidays, and especially during moments of crisis or disruption, it is essential that community institutions step forward,” said Tim Bombard, President and Chief Executive Officer of East Cambridge Savings Bank. “Our mission as a mutual bank is rooted in supporting the well-being of our neighbors. Whether it’s addressing food insecurity, supporting families, or investing in trusted local organizations, we are proud to do our part to help strengthen the communities we serve.”
Among the food pantry beneficiaries was Arlington EATS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing dignified access to nutritious food while building long-term food security for residents of Arlington.
“The need for food assistance increases significantly during the winter months, and disruptions like the SNAP shutdown place additional strain on families and community organizations alike,” said Andi Doane, Executive Director of Arlington EATS. “Support from local partners like East Cambridge Savings Bank makes a real and immediate difference, allowing us to continue serving our neighbors with dignity and care.”
Also in response to the government shutdown, the bank offered zero-interest loans, mortgage payment modifications, and fee waivers to customers who are federal employees.
ECSB also once again hosted a toy drive in support of Toys for Local Children, a Somerville-based organization that works to ensure children in need throughout the Greater Boston area receive holiday gifts, helping families experience joy and stability during the season. Through the generosity of bank customers, employees, and community members, hundreds of toys were collected for this local organization.
Additionally, bank employees supported a casual Friday jeans program to raise funds, directing the proceeds to two organizations that support vulnerable populations. Donations were made to Community Action Programs Inter-City (CAPIC), Inc. in Chelsea, which provides food assistance, housing support, and economic empowerment services to low-income individuals and families in Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop, and to the Mystic Valley YMCA’s Mystic Community Market, which offers free, culturally appropriate groceries and resources to address food insecurity in the region.
Further extending its holiday outreach, ECSB made a donation to Action for Haitian Community Development, Inc. (AHCD) in support of its 2025 Cultural Christmas Celebration. AHCD is a Malden-based nonprofit that promotes self-sufficiency and community engagement within the Haitian and immigrant communities. During the celebration, 305 toys were distributed to children and families, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to cultural connection and family support.
“These organizations are on the front lines of meeting critical needs every day,” Bombard added. “We are grateful for their partnership and inspired by the impact they have across our communities. Supporting their work, especially during the holidays, is central to who we are as a community bank.”
East Cambridge Savings Bank remains committed to investing in programs and partnerships that enhance quality of life, promote stability, and support resilience throughout the communities it serves.
To learn more about East Cambridge Savings Bank, please visit ecsb.com.
Photo caption: East Cambridge Savings Bank employees John McCabe (left) and Rick Murray (right) pose with East End House's Ryan Montbleau. East End House, an East Cambridge based nonprofit organization, was among 12 organizations to receive a monetary donation from the bank in response to the SNAP benefits disruption, along with food items donated by customers and employees.
About East Cambridge Savings Bank:
East Cambridge Savings Bank is a full-service mutually held bank that is committed to be the preferred banking partner in the communities it serves. Established in 1854, the Bank strives to provide an exceptional customer experience and generous support for the community. Headquartered in Cambridge, the Bank has locations in Arlington, Belmont, Cambridge, Chelsea, Malden, Medford, Somerville, Waltham, and Woburn as well as an educational training facility at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. The Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the Depositors Insurance Fund (DIF), and is an Equal Housing Lender.
CONTACT:
Leo Gayne
Vice President, Public and Community Relations Officer
(617) 551-2353
lgayne@ecsb.com