Merrimack Valley Credit Union Accepting Scholarship Applications Through Feb. 28

Merrimack Valley Credit Union is now accepting scholarship applications from high school seniors graduating this year, and expects to award more than $26,000 to 18 students within its field of membership. Two of the awards honor late members of the credit union’s family. The Lisa Lewis Goodman Community Spirit Award of $2,500 will be presented to one student who embodies the credit union philosophy of people helping people, dedicating themself to their community through volunteer efforts both in and outside of school. James A. Burley Jr. Scholarships are awarded to three students who excel academically, actively participate in extracurricular activities and provide exceptional essay responses. First place is $5,000, second place is $3,000 and third place is $2,000.

Greater Haverhill Chamber’s Non-Profit Network Meets Feb. 11

Area nonprofits are invited to participate in Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce’s next Non-Profit Network meeting in February. The Non-Profit Network brings together members in the public and charitable sectors to share resources and collaborate with one another. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month and open to non-profit Chamber members. The next meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 11, from 4-5 p.m., at Harbor Place, 2 Merrimack St., third floor, Haverhill.

Roche Becomes Vice President and Residential Loan Officer at Pentucket Bank

Ellen Roche recently joined Pentucket Bank as vice president and residential loan officer. She is responsible for helping customers understand the loan process and different loan types, reviewing applicants credit reports and financial statements and advising them on the best options available and ensuring that the loan applicants comply with federal and state regulations. Roche reports to Senior Vice President and Director of Residential Lending Joanna Buccieri. “She has a great deal of experience working with customers and takes the time to understand their unique needs and provide solutions,” said Buccieri. “She’s a true banking professional which makes her a great resource for her customers and an incredible asset to the bank.”

Roche is a graduate of Northern Essex Community College and has more than 38 years of banking experience.

Greater Haverhill Chamber Plans 7th Annual Restaurant Week Feb. 21-27

The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce’s seventh annual Restaurant Week is set to kick off in just under a month. Restaurant Week begins Friday, Feb. 21 and runs through Thursday, Feb. 27—the first time the event takes place during the winter season. Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce interim President Kate Martin told WHAV listeners Monday why the change is taking place.

Pentucket Bank Supports New Haverhill Duplex by Essex County Habitat for Humanity

Essex County Habitat for Humanity is getting help paying for construction of a new duplex in Haverhill’s Mount Washington neighborhood from the Pentucket Bank Charitable Foundation. Pentucket Bank donated $5,000 to the Curtis Street duplex which will provide permanently affordable homeownership. The new homes, each with a three-bedroom unit, will sup[port families secured through Habitat’s home lottery. “Habitat for Humanity plays a vital role in addressing our affordable housing shortage,” said Pentucket Bank President and CEO Steve Jaskelevicus. He added, “Through its innovative approach, Habitat works with low-income families, volunteers and others in our community to create a lasting impact on individuals and neighborhoods.”

Habitat for Humanity works to help build and improve homes for families of low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds.

Merrimack Valley Chamber Members to Network Feb. 6 at Aspen Hill Rehab

Haverhill’s Aspen Hill Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center hosts members of the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce for a Business Networking Mixer on the first Thursday in February. Besides networking, those attending may nibble appetizers and have an opportunity to win a door prize. The mixer takes place Thursday, Feb. 6, from 5-7 p.m., at Aspen Hill Rehabilitation, 190 North Ave., Haverhill. Admission is $10 each for members or $20 each for non-members and may be reserved online at MerrimackValleyChamber.com or by calling 978-686-0900.

Haverhill Bank Supports Haverhill Boys & Girls Club After-School Rides

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill is driving into the new year thanks to a $25,000 van sponsorship from Haverhill Bank. The organization says the bank’s donation supports after-school programs for underserved youth by providing much needed transportation for field trips, sporting events and meal deliveries. Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Javier Bristol explains, “The funding will allow the club to keep up with maintenance and repairs of the van. We are so appreciative of Haverhill Bank and all they do to support nonprofits in this community.”

Pentucket Bank Supports Free Diaper Program with Contribution

Families that rely on Haverhill-based Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank are getting some help thanks to a grant from the Pentucket Bank Charitable Foundation. The bank donated $3,000 Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank, which provides diapers free of charge to eligible families. By addressing a critical gap—diapers and wipes are not covered by government assistance programs such as WIC or SNAP—Anchor of Hope’s goal is to help families meet their children’s basic needs with dignity. “In times of need, it is our collective responsibility to support those who are working tirelessly to care for people in our communities. We are honored to contribute to the important work of the Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank,” said Pentucket Bank President and CEO Steve Jaskelevicus.