There is no one who hasn’t been impacted by the events of recent months. At Regions Bank, our team has been impacted, too. At the same time, we have been reminded how our role as a financial institution is tied directly to opportunities to serve and uplift our community.
As a society, we have battled a global pandemic like none ever seen. And acts of racial injustice have laid bare the work that must still be done to live in a more equitable, a more just, and a more united society.
As a corporate citizen in Metro Jackson and across central Mississippi, we have a continuing responsibility to create positive change across our communities, so everyone has an opportunity for a better tomorrow.
In response to COVID-19, Regions Bank and the Alabama-based Regions Foundation provided assistance and support for several Mississippi organizations helping those impacted. The assistance was part of Regions’ comprehensive efforts to use its resources, experience and insights to support community recovery. Investments include support for the following:
The University of Mississippi Medical Center to provide medical supplies and equipment, as well as items needed by patients and families affected by COVID-19;
Mississippi Housing Partnership to support programs that help people with homeownership needs;
Mississippi Food Network to support increased food distribution for those experiencing economic hardships;
Women’s Foundation of Mississippi to provide organizations with medical supplies and equipment, laptops and tablets for community college students to continue their education, and food and hygiene products;
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi to support online learning opportunities, as well as food bags with breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks so club members and their families do not go hungry.
In addition to these community investments, Regions associates worked around the clock to help small-business owners apply for federal dollars to help keep their companies afloat and employees employed. The process was challenging at times, but through teamwork and persistence, we were able to help well over 40,000 businesses across Regions’ service areas receive SBA funding.
Regions bankers continue to reach out to customers directly to discuss their unique situations – whether they’re related to business or personal needs, and our commitment to serve as a resource for financial advice and guidance remains unchanged.
In addition, our company continues to develop comprehensive measures to address racial injustice and inequity. Beginning in 2018, we refined our focus on community investments to prioritize opportunities that create more inclusive prosperity. In addition to our volunteerism and community involvement, we have made significant financial contributions to advance the work of organizations that are creating economic empowerment and advancing equity. While progress has been made, we know much more work remains to be done. And you will see this work continue at Regions in new and meaningful ways in the months ahead.
This year has seen very painful and difficult times. But we are working to serve as part of the solution to the challenges we face. We will stand together with the people of Metro Jackson and all of Mississippi as we move forward – together.
Robert Leard is Metro Jackson Market Executive for Regions Bank
