FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Peoples Bank of East Tennessee Introduces Community Heroes Loan Program: Supporting the People Who Serve our Communities

MADISONVILLE, Tenn. – Every day, city and county employees serve our communities, providing the essential services that keep our neighborhoods safe, connected, and moving forward. At Peoples Bank of East Tennessee, we believe supporting those individuals means more than saying “thank you.” It means listening when a need exists and finding meaningful ways to help.

The Community Heroes Loan Program was inspired by conversations with leaders from the City of Sweetwater after the City was no longer able to offer payroll deduction as a way for employees to purchase required job-related equipment. Recognizing the impact this change could have on local public servants, Peoples Bank of East Tennessee worked alongside city leaders to develop a financing solution that helps employees access the equipment they need while easing the financial burden.

That collaboration became the Community Heroes Loan Program, another example of community banking built by listening first and responding to the needs of the communities we serve. The program was created with local public servants in mind, including police officers, firefighters, emergency responders, public works employees, and other eligible city and county team members whose work often requires specialized equipment to serve their communities.

*Eligible employees may apply for unsecured loans ranging from $500 to $2,000 to assist with approved job-related equipment purchases. The program features competitive fixed rates, no loan origination fee, and convenient repayment options for qualified borrowers.

“When the City was no longer able to offer payroll deduction as a way for employees to purchase required equipment, it created a real challenge for many of our team members,” said Jessica Morgan, City of Sweetwater representative. “Peoples Bank of East Tennessee listened, understood the need, and developed a practical solution. We’re grateful for their partnership and their willingness to invest in the people who serve our community every day.”

“One of the things I value most about community banking is the opportunity to listen,” said Vanessa Lewis, S.V.P. Consumer Portfolio Manager. “This program began with a conversation about a real need facing local employees. Working alongside the City of Sweetwater, we were able to create a solution that helps remove one of those barriers. That’s what community banking is all about: listening, building relationships, and finding practical ways to support the people who make our communities stronger.”

The Community Heroes Loan Program is now available through Peoples Bank of East Tennessee branches. Eligible city and county employees interested in learning more are encouraged to contact their local Peoples Bank of East Tennessee branch.

*Disclosure: Community Heroes Loans are available from $500 to $2,000 and are subject to credit approval, eligibility requirements, and program guidelines. Additional terms, conditions, fees, and restrictions may apply. Visit your local Peoples Bank of East Tennessee branch for complete details. Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender