Local Bank Assists Divide County School District Students
June 26, 2020
Crosby, ND, June 29, 2020 – The Bank of Tioga recently assisted Divide County School District students by paying the balance of any unpaid student lunch accounts for the 2019-2020 school year.
“Earlier this year, the school board discussed various options of how to resolve outstanding balances, alternative meal options and the best way to support our families in need,” said Divide County School Board Member, Krista Verlinde.
Becoming aware of this need, The Bank of Tioga recently gifted $2,146.61 for the 2019-2020 school year to clear the unpaid student lunch accounts. After discussing options with the Divide County Elementary Principal, Tanja Brown, the project was brought to Divide County Superintendent Dr. Sherlock Hirning.
“We were elated by the thought of receiving this type of financial support from The Bank of Tioga. As discussion continued, the notion that similar delinquent balances may very well occur in the future led to an idea that an emergency fund could be established to assist future families experiencing financial challenges,” said Divide County School District Superintendent, Dr. Sherlock Hirning.
In order to be eligible for assistance with forgiving any delinquent lunch accounts, parents must first apply for the Free and Reduced Meals Program. Information is given to all students enrolled in Divide County at the start of the school year.
“If families don’t qualify or only qualify for a portion of assistance, this program will be able to help families that need it. We have also considered prerequisites before receiving aid from this account,” said Amy Larson, The Bank of Tioga Lead Credit Administrative Assistant. “Additionally, we are exploring educational opportunities to provide to families in Divide County, including budgeting tools and resources and encourage anyone to take advantage of the occasion,” stated Larson.
“We truly want to meet people where they are at,” continued Verlinde. “Sometimes that means joining others in their journey.”
About The Bank of Tioga: The Bank of Tioga is a community bank that values citizenship, exceptional client service, serving as a business leader in its community. Committed to supporting local organizations, the bank reinvests a portion of their net income back to the community. The Bank of Tioga was chartered in 1951 and was acquired by TS Contrarian Bancshares Inc., an affiliate of TS Banking Group in 2014, with $334 million in assets. Branch locations Tioga and Crosby, North Dakota. For more information visit thebankoftioga.com.