1. NEWS RELASE CONTACT: The Rev. Mary Margaret Earl
September 20, 2011 (401) 941-9013 x302 or cell 524-6078
Washington Trust Takes Action to Ease Hunger
Through McAuley’s “Lunch on Us” Program
Washington Trust CEO Joseph J. MarcAurele serves meals to the needy
PROVIDENCE – Washington Trust President and CEO Joseph J. MarcAurele, joined by
five Washington Trust executives, on Monday served lunch to more than 200 hungry women,
men and children at McAuley House.
The volunteerism – during national “Hunger Action Month” – was part of the “Lunch on Us
at McAuley House” program. The program invites organizations to financially support the
Providence meal site, and to send its employees to serve lunch and witness firsthand the
impact they make. Washington Trust this month made a $5,000 donation to McAuley House,
enabling the nonprofit to continue providing basic human needs.
“Without support from partners like Washington Trust, women, men and children in Rhode
Island would go without food, clothing or shelter,” said Executive Director of McAuley
Ministries, Donald P. Wolfe. “We are able to do this vital work because of friends like them.”
This is the second year in a row that Washington Trust has supported “Lunch on Us at
McAuley House.” Over the next two weeks, more than a dozen Washington Trust executives
will volunteer.
"The current economy has placed tremendous burdens on Rhode Islanders and local
community agencies,” MarcAurele said. “As Rhode Island's largest independent bank,
Washington Trust is committed to helping our neighbors who need assistance."
After lunch was served to McAuley House guests Monday, a dozen Washington Trust
executives gathered for lunch in the dining room, with MarcAurele speaking with them about
the importance of supporting the community.
“Joe provides the kind of corporate leadership that helps ensures basic needs for our most
vulnerable Rhode Island residents,” Wolfe said.
McAuley House is a non-profit meal site and house of hospitality serving the South Side of
Providence since 1975. Its values are rooted in charity and justice, and in the belief that each
person must be treated with dignity and respect.
# # #