Foundation has awarded $690,500 to nonprofit organizations in 2026 and nearly $5.8 million since 2011.
In recognition of National Nonprofit Day, Pentucket Bank and the Pentucket Bank Charitable Foundation (PBCF) are celebrating the nonprofit organizations, schools, and community partners whose work strengthens the Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire.
Giving back has always been at the heart of Pentucket Bank’s identity since its founding. As a mutual bank, Pentucket Bank is committed to reinvesting in the communities that have supported its success for generations. That commitment extends beyond banking through the work of the Pentucket Bank Charitable Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve quality of life and create opportunities throughout the communities the Bank serves.
Since its inception in 2011, PBCF has awarded nearly $5.8 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and community initiatives across northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. In 2026 alone, the Foundation has committed $690,500 to support organizations addressing a broad range of community needs, including housing, education, financial literacy, youth development, veteran services, arts and culture, and community enrichment.
“Every grant represents an investment in the strength and vitality of our communities,” said Stephen M. Jaskelevicus, President and CEO of Pentucket Bank and President of the PBCF. “We are fortunate to work alongside so many organizations that are making a meaningful difference every day. Supporting their work is one of the ways we can help create stronger, more vibrant communities for everyone.”
The Foundation’s most recent round of grants, approved at its June meeting, provides a snapshot of the breadth of its philanthropic focus. The $49,500 awarded to 11 nonprofit and community organizations supports initiatives ranging from financial literacy and housing resources to education, veteran services, arts and environmental programming, and community spaces.
Among the June recipients were AgeSpan, Lawrence Community Works, and the Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership, supporting financial literacy and housing-related initiatives, and Operation Delta Dog, which provides services to veterans. Capital and facility projects include a commercial kitchen at Esperanza Academy, a playground at Fisk Elementary School, and a new teen room at the Merrimac Public Library.
Additional grants support a student internship at Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School, arts and environmental education at Friends of Veasey, scholarships through the Haverhill Performing Arts Workshop, and programming at the Haverhill Farmers Market.
While Foundation grants are an important part of Pentucket Bank’s community commitment, the Bank’s support extends well beyond charitable giving. As a mutual bank with no outside shareholders, Pentucket Bank reinvests in the people and neighborhoods it serves, making community investment a core part of its mission. Together with its affiliated banks, Newburyport Bank and Rollstone Bank & Trust, River Run contributed more than $1.6 million in charitable donations and grants in 2025, while employees volunteered nearly 8,162 hours with 562 nonprofit organizations.
“Strong communities are built through partnership,” Jaskelevicus added. “Our nonprofit partners understand the needs of the people and neighborhoods they serve, and we are proud to support their efforts through the Foundation, employee volunteerism, and the many other ways Pentucket Bank gives back throughout the year.”
PBCF awards grants three times each year to nonprofits, educational institutions, and military support organizations throughout northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Organizations interested in applying for future funding may submit a Request for Proposal through the PBCF’s online grant portal. Application deadlines are December 31, April 30, and September 30 for consideration at the Foundation’s February, May, and October Board meetings.
ABOUT PENTUCKET BANK
Founded in 1891, Pentucket Bank has been a trusted financial partner for generations, committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses “Start with Heart.” Headquartered in Haverhill, MA, the Bank has over $1 billion in assets and six community banking locations across Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. With a foundation built on service, relationships, and care, we are dedicated to strengthening the communities we serve. Alongside Newburyport Bank and Rollstone Bank & Trust, we are supported by River Run Bancorp, MHC. With collective assets of $3.6 billion, River Run ensures strength and shared resources for our banks and our communities.