December 3, 2019
Easthampton, Massachusetts – Matthew S. Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB, announced that the bank recently donated $3,500 to sponsor the annual Hot Chocolate Run, an event held by Safe Passage, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a world free of domestic violence and relationship abuse.
Now in its 16th year, the run will take place in Northampton on December 8, and is expected to draw more than 6,300 participants, volunteers, and spectators – as well as thousands of donors – who will unite to help raise awareness for the prevention of domestic violence. bankESB’s donation marks its seventh consecutive year of support for the event.
The funds raised through the event will help support Safe Passage’s range of services for survivors, including shelter for those at risk, counseling for adults and children, 24-hour crisis support, legal services, housing advocacy, community education, and violence prevention. The organization provides services to ensure every community receives the assistance they need, including survivors who are Latino, immigrants, or disabled, as well as LGBTQ, non-binary, and gender non-conforming.
“Domestic violence is a serious social issue impacting our communities. Through its wealth of programs and support, Safe Passage is helping provide better lives for all survivors,” said Sosik. “bankESB understands how vital the Hot Chocolate Run is to generating funding, awareness, and most importantly, hope and opportunities for survivors. We’re honored to be a part of it again this year.”
About bankESB
Founded in 1869 as Easthampton Savings Bank, bankESB is headquartered in Easthampton, Massachusetts, and operates 11 branches throughout western Massachusetts. Through its sponsorship and charitable giving program, bankESB and the Easthampton Savings Bank Charitable Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties. In 2018, the bank and foundation donated more than $300,000 to 150 organizations. In the last five years, the program has donated more than $1.1 million. For more information, visit bankESB.com.