Gorham Savings Bank granted 20 wishes in July and August totaling $20,000 as part of its 150^th anniversary Wish Tree program.

With a goal of granting $150,000 worth of wishes in 150 days, the first and second round of wishes fulfilled included snow plow service this winter for a working single mother in Waterboro, plane tickets to Alaska for parents to visit their son returning from deployment in Afghanistan, assistance with college tuition for a 23-year-old cancer survivor who cares for her little brothers, and contribution towards a prosthetic leg for a child in need.

Additional wishes granted included a donation to the Windham Veterans Association, a field trip for the incoming 4/5^th grade classes at East End Community School, heating oil for hard-working parents of six children in Portland, and a donation to the Gorham Backpack Program for children with food insecurity.

Also, thanks to the Wish Tree program, Gorham Cooperative Preschool will celebrate its 50^th anniversary with a new outdoor playset, the American Legion Post #197 received a donation for building upgrades, and the Gorham Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) received a donation towards medical supplies.

“This initiative is about giving back to the communities that have given so much to us over the past 150 years,” said Steve deCastro, president of Gorham Savings Bank. “We always strive to be a force for good in the communities we serve and we hope this program brings people a bit of joy, and in a small way can change some local lives for the better.”

The next round of wishes to be granted will be announced in late September.

About the Wish Tree Program

Putting its own spin on an age-old tradition, Gorham Savings Bank, in celebration of its 150th anniversary, placed Wish Trees in each of its 12 branches and is inviting customers and non-customers alike to stop by, write down a wish on a tag, and tie it to the tree – now through November 15.

Wishes can be made for a friend, family member, neighbor, acquaintance, or even oneself. Of course, every wish can’t be granted, however the bank is seeking to make a meaningful impact for the greatest number of people with the program’s funds.

Each month, from July through November, Gorham Savings Bank will grant up to $10,000 worth of wishes and at the conclusion of the 150 days, in December, will grant up to $100,000 more.

To learn more about the Wish Tree Program, and for complete terms and conditions, visit the Wish Tree page.