Just as important as food is warm clothing. Our Bundle Up Drive directly complements our annual 10 Days of Giving initiative, both of them focusing on addressing two insecurities during the colder months.”

Market President, Bruce Goblirsch

This September, Merchants Bank is launching its company-wide “Bundle Up Drive” as a part of Minnesota Bankers Association (MBA) Community Impact Month to address the growing need for warm clothing and coats within its communities.
“Just as important as food is warm clothing,” said Market President, Bruce Goblirsch. “Our Bundle Up Drive directly complements our annual 10 Days of Giving initiative, both of them focusing on addressing two insecurities during the colder months.”
The demand for warm clothing and coats continues to rise annually, with national organizations like One Warm Coat reporting a 30% increase in requests for assistance each year since 2020. This alarming trend means that thousands of community members may be forced to choose between essential needs like food and adequate warm clothing.
“For generations, Merchants Bank has been a steadfast partner in our communities, built on a foundation of trust and shared vision for success,” said President & CEO, Greg Evans. “We’re honored to be a part of MBA Community Impact Month and look forward to the collaborative community effort during our Bundle Up Drive.”
The “Bundle Up Drive” takes place the whole month of September and community members are invited to donate new warm clothing and coats (hand-made items welcome) in the Cottage Grove or Hastings branch lobby. Bank leadership has placed a special emphasis on donations for children, as they are often most in need. The items collected at the Cottage Grove and Hastings branches will directly support Friends In Need and Hastings Family Service, respectively. Acceptable donations include:
• Winter jackets
• Snow pants
• Scarves
• Hats
• Mittens and gloves
• Warm socks
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Sweaters
• Fleece pullovers
Minnesota Bankers Association Community Impact Month is an annual initiative held every September, encouraging member banks across Minnesota to partake in community service activities.
Merchants Bank participates in philanthropic efforts throughout the year, including their annual 10 Days of Giving in December. Last year alone, the Bank’s commitment to the community included $521,004 in charitable donations company-wide, support for more than 440 organizations through donations or volunteer work and over 11,000 volunteer hours completed by our dedicated team members.
Merchants recently celebrated 150 years in business, being founded in Winona, MN on July 17, 1875. Since it’s humble beginnings as the working man’s bank of Winona with $100,000 in assets, it has grown to include more than 20 bank locations in southeastern Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. Merchants now has more than $2.7 billion in assets and is one of the largest banks in the state of Minnesota. Member FDIC.