Dean Bank to host month-long collection for Thanks to Yanks

For the past decade, Christine Molla and her business, Costello Realty, has played a quiet, yet impactful role in the Veterans Day collection drive spearheaded by the Milford- based non-profit organization, Thanks to Yanks.

As Molla tells it, she was inspired by watching the efforts of her former employee, Bob Moore…a Veteran himself. Molla stated: “When Bob retired, Costello Realty continued to be inspired by the mission of Thanks to Yanks and carried on his efforts.”

As a Dean Bank Board of Directors member, Christine has encouraged the bank to support the cause. The recent addition of Scott Rielly to the bank’s Commercial Lending team has only enhanced the bank’s commitment to Thanks to Yanks after learning of Scott’s role as Board Member and Outreach Director for the organization.

Scott became involved initially to help his friend and neighbor, Mike Shain its founder & President, as their children grew up together. Rielly said; “We honor and help those who served as well as their families because I feel our Vets are often forgotten for their service in today’s society. Many Vets need some sort of help and they are simply too proud to ask for help. Thanks to Yanks is designed to provide outreach and offer help.”

The bank will host a month-long collection drive in all four of their branches, beginning on October 5 th and ending just before Veterans Day. Customers and the community may drop off their donation of targeted items that include: men’s shampoo & conditioner, body wash, razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, new winter hats & gloves, sweatshirts & sweatpants and new men’s underwear sizes L & XL. Additionally, cash donations will be accepted for the purchase of gift cards.

When asked why collecting for Thanks to Yanks remains such an important endeavor for her company and the bank, Molla added: “All of us have our Freedom thanks directly to these amazing Veterans. We thank them for their service and are proud to support them and this organization as a result.”

Dean Bank is a mutual bank, owned solely by its depositors, with offices in Franklin, Bellingham, Blackstone and Mendon. Visit www.deanbank.com/locations to find the one nearest you.