Bank of the Sierra announced that the first quarter of 2016 saw $45,000 go to a variety of non-profit organizations throughout its footprint. Each quarter the Bank commonly awards approximately 15 organizations with grants, usually totaling $1,000 to $5,000 based on the specific needs of the organization.

The grant program partners with traditional non-profits, public school districts, and other local organizations. The types of projects that benefit from the grants range widely, including initiatives to help underprivileged children and the elderly, housing and community building projects, cultural and educational initiatives, and environmental preservation efforts.

Many of the grants from this quarter were distributed to organizations that support local youth, including Bags4Kids, which hands out backpacks, toys, and supplies to underprivileged foster children, the Olivia’s Heart Project, which works to promote awareness and prevention of fatal cardiac arrest in youths, and a number of other afterschool programs aimed at mentorship and enrichment.

Kevin McPhaill, Bank President and CEO, expressed his appreciation for the grant program and the organizations that benefit from it: “It’s great to learn about the philanthropic work that these organizations can accomplish—especially when local children benefit from it. As always, Bank of the Sierra is pleased to do its part.”

About the Sierra Grant Program
Since its inception in 2004 the Sierra Grant Program has been responsible for donating over $1.4 million to organizations that improve local communities. Non-profits who wish to apply for a Sierra Grant can pick up an instructional brochure at any Bank of the Sierra branch, or visit the bank’s web site at www.bankofthesierra.com/resources/sierra_grant_program.

About Bank of the Sierra
Since its founding in 1977, Bank of the Sierra has grown to become the largest independent bank in the southern San Joaquin Valley, with approximately $1.8 billion in assets. The Bank is a multi-community financial institution that offers a full range of retail and commercial banking services, employing over 400 people at 29 locations, including an online branch, a real estate industries center, and an ag credit center. Offering more than just financial services, Bank of the Sierra is committed to providing the benefits of local banking with a focus on improving the communities in which it serves.