Washington Trust Employees Assemble Kits to Help Homeless Transition to New Homes

Washington Trust Employees Build 'Welcome Home Kits' for Crossroads RI

In an impressive show of community spirit, employees of Washington Trust have recently taken an active role in helping those in need by assembling and donating 35 'Welcome Home Kits' aimed at supporting clients of Crossroads Rhode Island. These kits, valued at over $4,000, are intended for individuals who are transitioning from homelessness to more stable housing, filled with essential personal care items and basic household supplies.

During a dedicated collection drive, Washington Trust employees came together, pooling their resources to create these kits. They assembled various items that can help clients celebrate their new beginning as they settle into their apartments. Among the volunteers was Libby Menditto, the Vice President of Specialty Lending, who organized the effort. Her commitment, alongside fellow team members like Chairman and CEO Edward O. 'Ned' Handy III and President and COO Mary Noons, showcases the dedication of Washington Trust to its community.

Mary Noons expressed how Washington Trust prioritizes supporting programs that provide vital resources to families and individuals seeking safe housing options, especially considering the escalating housing crisis in Rhode Island. She stated, "Our employees care deeply about their local communities, and we're proud of this effort to support Crossroads' mission."

Furthermore, Laura Calenda, Chief Marketing and Philanthropy Officer for Crossroads, highlighted the urgency of the support provided by Washington Trust, noting that many individuals they assist often arrive with little more than the clothes on their back. The contents of the kits, including paper products, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, will significantly ease the transition process for these new residents.

This initiative merely adds to Washington Trust's ongoing efforts to support Crossroads RI. With an impressive commitment of a $50,000 grant, Washington Trust has pledged to back Crossroads’ 'Roads to Home' capital campaign, which aims to construct nearly 300 affordable permanent supportive apartments in Providence for formerly homeless adults across three different buildings.

About Washington Trust

Founded in 1800, Washington Trust holds the title of being the oldest community bank in the nation. It is also the largest state-chartered bank based in Rhode Island, offering a broad array of financial services. The bank prides itself on being a community-focused institution dedicated to enhancing the financial lives of the people, businesses, and organizations in New England. Washington Trust offers comprehensive services that include commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking, and wealth management, accessible through its offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, in addition to a range of digital services. Washington Trust is a member of the FDIC and serves as an equal housing lender. It operates as a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., which is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol WASH. For more information about Washington Trust, visit www.washtrust.com.