HATTIESBURG, MISS—Today United Way of Southeast Mississippi (UWSEMS) received a gift from Merchants & Marine Bank. The bank’s donation was part of a collective fund-raising effort by more than 13 Hattiesburg area banks. With nonprofit donations lagging, the local banks united to make a significant donation to support UWSEMS so they can continue providing funding and grants to their partner agencies again this year.
“We appreciate the generous support of Merchants & Marine Bank,” said Tracie Fowler, President and CEO of UWSEMS. “We’re thankful local companies like Merchants & Marine Bank continue to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the Pinebelt community and the vital programs offered by UNSEMS. Their participation in this effort allows us to focus on creating solutions that strengthen the cornerstones for a better quality of life in the local community: education, financial stability, health and support services.”
In 2020, UWSEMS established the COVID 19 Relief Fund and $50,000 was allocated to assist local citizens with rent and utilities across several counties, including Forrest, Lamar, Marion and Perry counties. “Through funds raised by the COVID 19 Relief Fund, UWSEMS was able to help individuals and families whose income was negatively impacted by the pandemic,” said Fowler. “As a result of this fund, we were able to provide over 150 needy local families with assistance for rent and utilities”.
Founded in 1899 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Merchants & Marine Bank, has been a strong supporter of UWSEMS for many years. “United Way provides vital support to low-to-middle income families getting them the resources they need to meet the challenge of everyday life, including weather emergencies and investments toward a brighter future for their family,” said Greg Hodges, Hattiesburg Market President for Merchants & Marine Bank.
“We were delighted to support United Way and their efforts to help families struggling from the impact of the ongoing pandemic,” said Hodges.
About Merchants & Marine Bank
Merchants & Marine Bank (M&M Bank), a wholly owned subsidiary of Merchants & Marine Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQX: MNMB), is a full-service state-chartered community bank with more than $600 million in total assets. Merchants & Marine Bank operates 14 full-service branch offices across the Mississippi and Alabama Gulf Coast, as well as loan and deposit production offices in Hattiesburg. The Bank has a five-star, superior rating from BauerFinancial, and offers a full suite of traditional and electronic banking services for both personal and business clients.
