Springfield— Behavioral Health Network, Inc. (BHN) has been awarded a $15,000 grant from Country Bank, which will fund direct services for BHN’s domestic violence programs in Ware.

Country Bank’s grant to BHN will be used for innovative support and advocacy services for domestic violence survivors, which includes partnering with Country Bank employees in offering the economic freedom initiative, Money School. BHN’s Money School program is an award-winning, trauma-informed financial independence initiative designed to create long-term safety and economic security for survivors of domestic violence.

The grant will also be used to provide prevention education work in local schools, and for interruption and prevention services for perpetrators of domestic violence.

“Country Bank is honored to support the vital work that is provided to survivors through BHN’s domestic violence programs. We are fortunate to have programs locally that support our communities and those in need of these services,” stated Shelley Regin, Senior Vice President, Marketing of Country Bank and an Advisory Board Member of BHN. 

Kathy Wilson, President & CEO of BHN, said, “We are thankful to Country Bank for this important funding that supports the critical programming we provide to survivors of domestic violence. These funds, and Country Bank's prior support, allow us to work with survivors in taking their first steps in achieving financial freedom. This support helps us in the complicated work of recovery with survivors and we appreciate Country Bank's community leadership.”

Country Bank has long been a supporter of BHN’s programs and mission, making frequent donations to BHN Valley Human Services (VHS) in Ware.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) states that one in four women report experiencing domestic violence. In addition to physical abuse, domestic violence survivors often experience financial duress, and almost half of domestic violence victims struggle with substance use disorders.

About Country Bank: Country Bank has a proud history of community involvement and lending support to organizations in the towns and cities that we serve. By supporting the communities who support us, we are able to contribute and improve the quality of life in our primary market areas. Country Bank is a state-chartered, mutual savings bank headquartered in Ware, Massachusetts. Founded in 1850, we value respect, courtesy, and good manners above all. As a mutual bank we answer to our customers first, not to investors. Our mission is to grow mutually beneficial relationships with our customers, community and staff.



About BHN: BHN has been providing behavioral health services to children and families in Western Massachusetts since 1938. The agency provides community-based services that include innovative, integrated whole-health models as well as traditional clinical and outpatient and therapeutic services, day treatment, addiction services, crisis intervention and residential supports.