Columbia Bank Launches Fifth Annual Warm Hearts Winter Drive Benefiting Homeless Families In The Northwest

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[{"type":"text","content":"TACOMA, Wash., Nov. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbia Bank today announced the official launch of its fifth annual Warm Hearts Winter Drive to benefit families and individuals struggling with homelessness in the Pacific Northwest. Columbia's goal is to exceed $1 million in combined donations since inception of the program through its fifth annual initiative.\n\n \nColumbia's Chief Executive Officer, Hadley Robbins commented, \"Homelessness continues to be a severe crisis throughout the Northwest. In partnering with local shelters and with the help of generous clients and community members, we are doing our part to help ease the pain and suffering of our neighbors in need during the coldest months of the year.\"\nColumbia's Chief Operating Officer Clint Stein added, \"Our Warm Hearts Winter Drive has become a foundation for giving at Columbia Bank, not only for the communities we serve, but also for our employees. They look forward to it every year and make a substantial contribution of their time and spirit. Their dedication and commitment to making an impact in helping those in need is inspiring.\"\nThis season, Columbia plans to raise $250,000 and collect thousands of new warm winter clothing to support more than 60 local homeless shelters and aid organizations throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho. That will bring the total funds raised since inception of the program in 2015 to over $1 million.\nDuke Paulson, executive director of Tacoma Rescue Mission commented, \"The longstanding partnership we have with Columbia supports those experiencing homelessness year-round and not just during the holidays. Columbia's generous support is crucial to the execution of our initiatives on behalf of our many families in need of a place to call home.\"\n\"The money and support we receive from Columbia provides more than meals and shelter – it helps people get back on their feet so that they can leave homelessness behind,\" said Eric Bauer, executive director of Portland Rescue Mission. \"We are thankful and proud to be a part of Warm Hearts and wish to acknowledge Columbia Bank for making a profound difference in the lives of those struggling in poverty.\"\nHow to Help the Warm Hearts Winter DriveEmployees at all of Columbia Bank's nearly 150 branches are actively engaged in securing cash donations and new warm clothing from clients and c...

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