First State Bank donates to animal shelter

MONTEZUMA — Thanks to the generosity of Montezuma and area residents, the furry friends at Poweshiek Animal League Shelter near Grinnell enjoyed extra treats and goodies during the Christmas holiday.

Curtis Bolen, branch manager and Becki Williams, customer service representative at First State Bank in Montezuma, delivered nearly 300 pounds of donated pet supplies and cleaning products to PALS Dec. 28.

Supplies included dog and cat food and treats, cat litter, cat and dog toys, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, dish soap, bleach and paper towels.

“We even got a couple cat houses donated,” said Williams.

The pet supply drive was held from Dec. 1 through Dec. 20.

Two Montezuma businesses partnered with the bank on the outreach. Monte Nutrition held a fundraising drive in connection with the pet supply drive, raising $120, which was given to PALS along with the pet supplies.

Vivarium also had a donation box and paw prints on the business Christmas tree for people to take and donate to a certain animal at the shelter.

“Your generosity makes a real difference for pets in need, and we’re so proud to support our community together,” said Williams.

Williams said the bank held the pet supply drive in an effort to be more involved with the communities the bank serves. First State Bank has locations in Montezuma, Brooklyn, Grinnell, New Sharon, Lynnville, Sully and Agency.

“This is something we are going to want to do yearly,” said Williams. “I have a dog and a lot of my coworkers have pets and to be able to give an extra treat to a dog or cat in a shelter was a great blessing.”