Lincoln, Neb.-based Security First Bank recently presented a $500 check to Lincoln Electric System, money that helped the company pay overdue balances for families struggling to pay their utility bill.
Security First was one of 26 recipients in a four-state region to receive a $500 charitable grant from FHLBank Topeka as part of its #500forGood program. To qualify for the program, recipients must use the grant to benefit their community. Lincoln Electric staff contacted their customers to inform them that all or a portion of their overdue bill had been covered thanks to the donation.
“I’m a believer in paying it forward,” said Lisa Workman, Security First Bank director of mortgage lending. “I knew we had families in the Lincoln area who struggle to pay for basic necessities, such as utilities, and I thought, ‘What a great way to help.’ You never know what someone is going through, and a gesture of kindness from a stranger could change someone’s entire outlook.”
Lisa Hale, Lincoln Electric System vice president, consumer sales, said Security First’s donation is helpful, because “especially at this time of year, families can be forced to make some tough choices about their bills, and we know those receiving the funds are very thankful for their community’s support.”