bankESB makes $25,000 challenge grant to Amherst Hurricanes Athletic Boosters’ T.U.R.F. Project

EASTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS, July 21, 2023 — Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB, announced that the bank is awarding up to $25,000 in a matching challenge grant to support the Amherst Hurricanes Boosters’ Transformative Uses for Regional Fields (T.U.R.F). Project. Alongside the support of parents and community members, the total could reach as much as $50,000. 

The Amherst Hurricane Athletic Boosters approached bankESB in search of a community partner to help them replace and reorient the condemned 23-year-old track and field with a usable, 8-lane track and year-round playable fields offering the best pedagogical experience and community gathering place in the area. To support their fundraising initiative, they wanted a partner who shared their commitment to eco-friendly facilities, health and wellness, equal access, safety, and innovation.

This matching grant gives parents, families, and community members the opportunity to purchase a seat or row in the new stands that would receive a named plaque, with bankESB matching donations dollar for dollar up to $25,000. 

“What an amazing opportunity for student-athletes to have a facility like this to use year-round to help unlock their full potential,” said Sosik. “bankESB is proud to stand with our community in Amherst, and we look forward to breaking ground on such an impactful project!”

Organizations and community members contributing to the Amherst T.U.R.F. Project can double the impact of their donations through this matching grant. Contributions may be sent to the Amherst Hurricanes Boosters office at 141 No. Pleasant St. P.O. Box 758 Amherst, MA 01002, or made on the organization's website at hurricaneboosters.com.

In The PhotoPictured are bankESB Amherst office assistant vice president and branch officer Jessica West and senior vice president of retail banking Gary Turku (far right) along with members of the board of the Amherst Hurricanes Athletic Boosters. Photo courtesy of Sophia Lynne Photography.

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, The Giving Tree, bankESB and the Easthampton Savings Bank Charitable Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties. In 2022, The Giving Tree donated nearly $500,000 and over the past decade has donated more than $3.2 million. For more information, visit bankESB.com.

bankESB is a member of the Hometown Financial Group, a $4.5 billion mutual multi-bank holding company headquartered in Easthampton, Massachusetts, and the parent company of bankESB, bankHometown, and Abington Bank as well as Hometown Mortgage. For more information, visit bankHFG.com.

About Amherst Hurricanes Athletic Boosters

The Amherst Hurricanes Athletic Boosters is a dedicated group of supporters of Amherst Regional Athletics. Their goal is to help support the healthy, positive impact that sports provides for student-athletes and the community at large. The Amherst Hurricanes Athletic Boosters, Inc., was incorpated as a 501 (c)(3) and is known as, the "Amherst Boosters," the "Hurricanes Boosters," and the "Boosters." They are a group of parents, coaches, student-athletes, community members, and alumni, who recognize the importance in community building and the value of athletics to all, not only those who excel in particular sports, but those who work hard, and enjoy the skills and education provided from being a team member.

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