Ridgewood’s mobile branch visited F.S.

Ridgewood Savings Bank announced the 10th anniversary of its Mobile Branch, which brings banking directly to the people—at senior living facilities, schools, and community events throughout Long Island.

“The Mobile Branch reflects our commitment to serving our communities,” says, Peter M. Boger, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Ridgewood Savings Bank. “It brings the bank to people who can’t easily get to a branch—allowing many seniors to maintain their financial independence. It also provides a fun and engaging venue where we can teach children valuable financial lessons.”

The Mobile Branch was the first of its kind in New York State. In addition to now making regular stops at 22 senior housing centers, it serves as a traveling classroom for the ABA Teach Children to Save Program. The branch travels to more than a dozen elementary schools each year, where students come aboard to learn the basics of banking and managing money. It is also a welcome sight at a host of parades, street fairs and festivals, where it provides information and giveaways, along with a convenient on-board ATM.

This 40-foot-long vehicle features a fully equipped bank office inside, enabling real-time transactions with cellular technology. The traveling branch is equipped with teller windows, ATM, private office, and customer service desk. A ramp can be lowered to ensure full wheelchair access.

The Mobile Branch also has been used in disaster recovery efforts. When the Breezy Point community was devastated during Superstorm Sandy, Ridgewood parked the Mobile Branch on site for several weeks, offering banking services as well as cell phone charges and supplies. It has also been used to serve as a temporary branch in other locations when the need arises.