Community Care in Action: United Way and Union Bank Support Lakewood Students
When local organizations come together with a shared purpose, the impact can be felt far beyond a single moment. That spirit of collaboration was on full display through a recent partnership between United Way of Greater Central Michigan and Union Bank, as Union Bank hosted a feminine hygiene products supply drive to support students in Lakewood Public Schools.
Access to essential feminine hygiene products—such as tampons, pads, deodorant, and other period care items—is a critical yet often overlooked need for students. Without reliable access, students may miss school, struggle to concentrate, or feel uncomfortable asking for help. When Union Bank learned that students in the district were missing school due to a lack of these basic necessities, they knew action was needed.
“Union Bank is proud to support and give back to the communities we serve through volunteer time, donations and monetary support,” shared Rose Willson, AVP, Marketing Manager at Union Bank. “When we learned that students in the local school district were missing school due to a lack of access to basic hygiene products, it aligned closely with our commitment to supporting education and quality of life in our communities.”
Partnering with United Way allowed Union Bank to turn concern into meaningful, coordinated action. Through Union Bank’s Happy Holidays. Period. initiative, the supply drive became a powerful way to address period poverty and remove a barrier that directly impacts school attendance and student confidence. United Way’s community connections helped ensure the donated items reached students who needed them most.
“Strong communities are built through collaboration,” Rose explained. “Partnerships between local financial institutions and nonprofits like United Way allow organizations to combine resources, expertise and trusted relationships to address real needs. Working alongside United Way strengthens education and removes barriers that can prevent students and families from thriving.”
This commitment to community extends well beyond a single drive. Union Bank views giving back as an ongoing responsibility—one that is embedded into how they operate as a community bank. “We ensure that each community we serve is cared for by actively investing our time, resources and financial support where it matters most,” Rose said. “Guided by our commitment to make, build, and grow stronger communities, Union Bank partners with all United Way organizations within the communities we serve, allowing us to support a wide range of initiatives that strengthen education, financial security and overall quality of life.”
Looking ahead, both organizations see this partnership as one that will continue to grow and adapt alongside community needs.
“We envision expanded collaboration, increased employee engagement and ongoing support of programs that advance education, health, youth opportunities and financial security,” Rose said. “As community needs evolve, we remain committed to listening, adapting and working alongside United Way to build resilient communities and a stronger future.”
Through this partnership, students in Lakewood Public Schools now have increased access to the feminine hygiene products they need to attend school with confidence—a powerful reminder that when local partners work together, meaningful change follows.
