WILMINGTON, DE — In a year marked by unprecedented community need, the WSFS CARES Foundation, the charitable arm of WSFS Bank (Nasdaq: WSFS), has stepped up to the challenge. The foundation distributed more than $2.7 million in grants to over 390 community organizations across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania in 2023.
This philanthropic commitment was further bolstered by an additional $2 million contribution to the WSFS CARES Foundation, earmarked to support future community investments.
But the foundation’s impact extends beyond monetary donations. Team WSFS, the bank’s corporate volunteer program, logged more than 18,000 volunteer hours throughout the year. This dedication was highlighted during the inaugural “We Stand for Service Day” in June, where WSFS closed its banking offices for a half-day to allow approximately 1,200 associates to volunteer nearly 5,000 hours at over 80 organizations across the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware region.
Patrick J. Ward, Executive Vice President, Pennsylvania Market President at WSFS Bank, and Chairman of the WSFS CARES Foundation, expressed his pride in the foundation’s work, “We’re proud of the impact the WSFS CARES Foundation and our Team WSFS volunteers have made by working hand-in-hand to address the needs of our communities.”
The WSFS CARES Foundation focuses on key pillars, including community investments, affordable housing, revitalization and business economic empowerment, education and leadership development, and strengthening those in need.
A shining example of the foundation’s impact is the support provided to Philadelphia Academies, Inc. (PAI), an innovative nonprofit organization dedicated to improving outcomes for Philadelphia’s young people. In addition to a financial grant, WSFS facilitated 10 financial education workshops for over 150 PAI students in 2023.
Jay Vazquez, President and CEO of Philadelphia Academies, Inc., praised the partnership, “Thanks to their partnership, our students have gained invaluable financial literacy instruction and enjoyed transformative learning experiences.”
In New Jersey, the Cathedral Kitchen received a grant to support its mission of helping individuals out of food insecurity and championing their pursuit of stability and prosperity. Team WSFS also participated in volunteer initiatives with the organization, reinforcing their commitment to service.
Carrie Kitchen-Santiago, Executive Director of Cathedral Kitchen, expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support, “Their support helps us continue to meet the immediate needs of vulnerable families and individuals in our community while helping them break down barriers to stability.”
The WSFS CARES Foundation also partnered with the Sunday Breakfast Mission for WSFS’ annual Food Drive, raising an impressive 56,000 pounds of food for donation.
Through its combination of financial support and volunteerism, the WSFS CARES Foundation has made a significant difference in the communities it serves. Its commitment to addressing pressing community needs underscores the vital role philanthropy plays in fostering a more equitable society.
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