By Scott Mitchell Johnson
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Employees of Katahdin Trust Co. recently had the opportunity to “dress down” as a way to raise funds for the victims of Hurricane Sandy which ravaged the northeastern United States.
For a minimum donation of $2, employees at all branch locations — and the Operations Center in Houlton — could wear their best jeans Nov. 16, 23, 30 and Dec. 7. All funds raised by employees were matched by the bank.
In addition, the branch locations served as collection sites so bank customers and members of the public could support the victims of Hurricane Sandy, as well. A check was recently presented to representatives of the American Red Cross—Pine Tree Chapter for its disaster relief fund to assist the victims of the storm.
“Katahdin Trust Co. is privileged to have partnered with our customers, friends and neighbors to raise funds for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts,” said Vicki Smith, senior vice president of marketing and communications. “The people of northeastern Maine have long demonstrated their sense of humanity in reaching out to those in need.
“For this effort, the bank was able to raise money internally through designated dress-down days with the bank matching employee contributions, as well as serving as a collection point for our customers,” she said. “We are pleased to present $3,700 for the benefit of victims from this horrific storm. In our role as a true community bank, these efforts are in line with our mission of service.”
Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County branch manager of the American Red Cross—Pine Tree Chapter, praised the local bank for its fund-raising initiative.
“This is truly a remarkable endeavor made by Katahdin Trust Co. staff, customers and administration,” said Knorr. “Whenever the Red Cross has a need or a major disaster strikes, Katahdin Trust steps right up to say, ‘We care and we are here to help!’
“We are so grateful to so many compassionate people like Katahdin Trust in the Red Cross community, as we provide emergency relief and help millions of families recover and get back to their lives,” she said. “On behalf of the families and individuals we’ve served and will continue to serve in the days and weeks ahead, thank you.”
