Florence Bank Supports YWCA with a $5,000 Contribution

Florence Bank is pleased to announce it has donated $5,000 to the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, with the funds being used to support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and homelessness

The YWCA has served the region for over 155 years and is the fifth largest YW association in the United States, providing support to nearly 12,000 individuals each year. Its guiding principle is to provide shelter, support services, and tools for women and girls in the community. The YW aims to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The YW serves individuals and families through several sites including Holyoke, Northampton, Springfield, and Westfield. Current programming includes workforce development, domestic violence/sexual abuse (DV/SA) counseling and advocacy, parent and youth support, human trafficking support, homelessness services, court advocacy, medical advocacy, supervised visitation, and a 24/7 DV/SA crisis hotline.

Florence Bank is committed to supporting initiatives that provide resources and programs for those facing barriers or challenging times, and its mission aligns with that of the YWCA. Supporting nonprofits that drive positive change and empowering individuals and families are ways the Bank partners to build stronger and more resilient communities.

Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity said the Bank is proud to support the YWCA. “As a community bank, our mission is to lend a hand where it’s needed most. The YWCA provides women and children with access to critical support services in times of need and helps them find an avenue to a thriving future.”

The YWCA’s Springfield campus also provides shelter to survivors of domestic violence and their children in a modern facility with state-of-the-art computerized security. It acts as a safe haven for people to heal, grow, and thrive.

“We deeply appreciate the generosity of Florence Bank and its leadership. This thoughtful donation will go towards the YWCA's Capital Campaign to support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and homelessness,” said Elizabeth Dineen, J.D., Chief Executive Officer of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts.

The YWCA’s expansive offerings are client-centered to reduce as many barriers as possible when working with survivors. Collaborative planning is used to outline the client’s goals and preferences for YW to provide the necessary support and tools, while giving agency and empowering the client.