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November 20, 2020 (Hyannis, MA) – The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod has partnered with Duffy Health Center this holiday season to ensure the health and hygiene needs are being met for those experiencing homelessness. To assist in providing warmth and comfort during the winter, The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod will donate $5,000 through the Bank and its Pandemic Relief Fund to purchase a tent to shield clients and patients from the elements at the Duffy shower program site in downtown Hyannis. Duffy has operated mobile shower units since April to serve those experiencing homelessness who suddenly had no access to public showers and bathrooms due to COVID-19 safety restrictions. The bank and Duffy have also launched a holiday giving program to provide essential hygiene items, or “Coop Kits,” to the region’s homeless population. “Traditional holiday giving campaigns, such as dropping off items and donations in a bank lobby, are not feasible this year due to risks associated with the pandemic,” said Lisa Oliver, Chair of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod. “We needed to be creative in developing our 2020 holiday charitable programs, and the partnership with Duffy Health Center is a perfect example of continuing to work with local nonprofits while minimizing risk and benefitting the mutual communities we serve.” Donations from $5.00 to $50.00 would provide for the purchase and distribution of essential hygiene and cold weather items for Duffy patients and clients. These items include toothpaste, toothbrushes, shower kits, wool socks, hats and gloves, personal hygiene or grooming kits and warm blankets for sleeping outdoors. Larger donations, starting at $75.00, would support Duffy’s efforts to provide cold weather clothing and footwear for those living on the street as winter takes hold on Cape Cod. Participants in the shower program are also provided the opportunity to connect with Duffy case management and recovery support services. Staff are also available to make referrals for care and treatment services. The program begins on Friday, Nov. 20 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 20. Donations can be made online at https://www.duffyhealthcenter.org/coop-kits. “We are profoundly grateful to The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod as we work together to improve the health and lives of our patients and clients that have been so impacted by the pandemic,” said Heidi Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of Duffy Health Center. “I am confident the Cape Cod community will once again rise to the occasion with generosity to provide aid to our neighbors during the holiday season.” About Duffy Health Center The mission of Duffy Health Center is to provide comprehensive, integrated health care and support services to persons who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness on Cape Cod, and to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations through community collaborations, leadership and advocacy. About The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod is an independent, local, mutual community bank with over $1 billion in assets and 170 employees. Established in 1921, the bank is committed to investing in the Cape Cod community where we live and work. The bank is headquartered in Hyannis with branches on Route 6A in Yarmouth Port, East Dennis and West Barnstable; in Sandwich at 275 Cotuit Road; in Hyannis at 695 Attucks Lane in Independence Park; in East Harwich at 1470 Orleans Road/Route 39; in North Falmouth at 660 North Falmouth Highway; in Falmouth at 238 Worcester Court; and in Marstons Mills at 3878 Falmouth Road. For more information, please visit www.mycapecodbank.com, www.facebook.com/mycapecodbank, or call 508.568.3400.