SACO – The Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution  has launched its Community Debit Card Program earlier this year in an effort to help fund nutritional programs in schools in their communities in York and Cumberland counties.

With six school districts participating, each time an SBSI member uses their Community Debit Card for a non-ATM transaction, SBSI will donate a portion of the interchange to that schools’ food and a nutrition program.

According to the National Education Association, child nutrition is a critical factor in development and achievement. Statewide, over 46% of students attending Maine schools are eligible for free or reduced-cost lunch.

“Saco and Biddeford Savings is proud to launch this initiative and excited to have the community join us in ensuring youth in southern Maine have lunch at school,” said Heather Clark, vice president and marketing manager at SBSI.

SBSI customers can visit their local branch to pick from six different Community Debit Cards for school districts in Biddeford, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, Scarborough, and Westbrook. The South Portland cards will be available starting Aug. 13.

For more information on SBSI’s Community Debit Card program, visit www.sbsavings.bank/community-debit-cards.

Founded in 1827, Saco & Biddeford Savings is Maine’s Oldest Bank with locations in Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Scarborough, South Portland, Biddeford, Westbrook and Portland. A leader in community banking, SBSI has contributed more than $3.6 million to area organizations over the last 10 years and continues to support the needs of the communities it servesacross York and Cumberland counties.