LEE, Mass. — Greylock Federal Credit Union is investing $2.2 million to purchase and renovate 43 Park St. to support its growing membership.
The credit union purchased the former Trustco Bank for $950,000 from 45 Park Street LLC, according to registry documents. Trustco first opened the branch on Route 20 in 2007 but had since closed.
Greylock officials say the credit union's Lee membership has nearly doubled over the last decade, necessitating a "more roomy, welcoming and functional space."
"This is an investment in our Lee members. This will be a place for building community and strengthening local opportunities," said Greylock President and CEO John L. Bissell in a statement. "Our model of empowerment, inclusion and equity is changing the face of financial services by providing everyone with access to the financial education and resources they need to thrive."
Greylock said it worked with more home buyers in 2022 than any other bank or credit union in Western Massachusetts, providing 31 percent of the mortgages issued in the region. Similarly, it helped more than a third of all local car buyers who took out a loan to pay for their vehicle.
According to Bissell, this is a direct result of Greylock's commitment to partner with its members and give them the support and tools they need to succeed. Greylock's team of 31 Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors provided more than 1,200 free coaching sessions in 2022.
"Financial empowerment through education is a vital part of what sets Greylock apart," said Bissell.
The soon to be remodeled branch is expected to open in late 2023 and will be fully accessible and include multiple teller stations, ample parking, drive-up and video tellers, private offices as well as a community space to host Greylock's education, coaching, and community activities.
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BHS And CDCSB Partner to Improve Housing Availability
GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass — Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) and the Community Development Corporation of Southern Berkshire (CDCSB) are partnering to support the expansion of workforce housing in South County.
BHS will provide the CDCSB with financial support to make some units of the Thornewood available for temporary housing of healthcare workers who face barriers in finding available housing options.
"As part of our mission to advance health and wellness for everyone in our community, we recognize that creating better access to housing resources for a diverse population of workers will make a real impact," said Darlene Rodowicz, president & CEO of BHS. "We were pleased to work with the CDCSB to develop this innovative new collaboration focused on addressing one of the core challenges in our community—accessible, affordable workforce housing through the redevelopment of the Thornewood Inn."
The Thornewood, at 453 Stockbridge Rd. in Great Barrington, has 16 furnished units that are suitable for 1–2 adults and vary in size, layout, and features.
"BHS's early support of the Thornewood project is greatly appreciated," said CDCSB Board President Jim Harwood. "Our partnership not only addresses a critical community need for short- and long-term housing for healthcare workers, but the additional financial support also allows us to provide this housing at affordable levels and fund ongoing upgrades for the property, such as our current project to build an improved shared kitchen for Thornewood residents."
According to the CDCSB, applicants working in Great Barrington will receive priority access to the rooms. Those working elsewhere in Berkshire County are also eligible. Eligibility for the affordable units is subject to maximum income levels.
For more information on The Thornewood, visit www.cdcsb.org.
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