Haverhill Bank Pledges to Match Emmaus Donations on Giving Tuesday

Director of Philanthropy Gretchen Arntz.

Emmaus’ Director of Philanthropy Gretchen Arntz.

Haverhill Bank has made “Giving Tuesday,” an annual fundraising day, more meaningful for homeless shelter operator, Emmaus, of Haverhill.

The bank will match the first $1,500 donated to Emmaus on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1. The relatively new tradition benefits non-profits across the country by asking donors to celebrate the holiday season by supporting their favorite charity.

“Haverhill Bank is proud to partner with Emmaus for this year’s Giving Tuesday,” said Thomas L. Mortimer, president and CEO of Haverhill Bank. “The bank has been a longtime supporter of Emmaus and its mission to help those less fortunate rebuild their lives. By matching donations up to $1,500, Haverhill Bank can simultaneously support Emmaus through its own contribution while also encouraging others to consider Emmaus when making charitable donations.”

Last year Emmaus raised $5,725 on Giving Tuesday—a record for the organization. The organization is aiming for $10,000 this year.

“Emmaus counts on funds raised during the month of December to keep our programs running throughout the year,” explained Emmaus’ Director of Philanthropy Gretchen Arntz. “Last winter cost Emmaus $7,000 to keep Mitch’s Place open all day long on 11 occasions when the weather conditions presented serious danger to our homeless guests. Donations from Giving Tuesday, including the matching gift from Haverhill Bank, will allow us to protect our community’s most-vulnerable citizens.”

Started in 2012, Giving Tuesday is a social movement that aims to create an intentional day of giving to kick off the holiday season.

Donations to Emmaus help women, men and children battling homelessness find housing, job training and other essential services to get them back on their feet and into their own homes, a spokesperson said. Since 1985, Emmaus has helped more than 25,000 children and adults out of homelessness and toward self-sufficiency. Last year, Emmaus helped 3,600 people, including 2,229 children.

GivingTuesday also kicks off for Emmaus’ annual Tree of Love Campaign. For a minimum $10 donation, donors may dedicate a light on the tree that stands in front of Emmaus Family Shelter, 150 How St. Lights can be dedicated in honor of, or in memory of, loved ones and friends. The annual Emmaus Tree Lighting Celebration takes place Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m. at Emmaus Family Shelter.

For more information, contact Margot Regan, events, marketing and communications manager at (978) 241-3425 or visit www.emmausinc.org.