North Shore Bank Donates $30,000 to Peabody Education Foundation to Support Student Mental Wellness
North Shore Bank announced a $30,000 contribution to the Peabody Education Foundation (PEF) in support of its Mental Wellness Initiative, a growing community effort that provides critical resources, programming, and support services to help local students navigate mental health challenges.
The Mental Wellness Initiative focuses on early-intervention programming, wellness education, and access to tools that build resilience, reduce stigma, and foster healthy coping skills. North Shore Bank’s donation will help expand these offerings across the Peabody Public Schools, ensuring more students benefit from meaningful mental health supports both inside and outside the classroom.
“Our partnership with the Peabody Education Foundation reflects North Shore Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities we serve,” said Michael R. Wheeler, president and CEO of North Shore Bank. “Supporting the mental well-being of students is not only an investment in their future, but in the future of our entire region. We are proud to contribute to a program that provides such essential and impactful resources.”
The Peabody Education Foundation, founded in 1985, works collaboratively with the school district and community partners to enhance educational opportunities for more than 6,000 students. The Mental Wellness Initiative has become one of its most impactful programs, connecting students with mindfulness instruction, therapeutic resources, and wellness-based classroom tools.
“Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and behave. It also guides how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Students need to be able to focus on academics but are often delayed or side-tracked due to issues ranging from bullying and anxiety, to anger management and depression. Supporting mental health in our schools is a growing critical need, and the PEF is thrilled to once again partner with North Shore Bank to make these essential services available to our students,” said David Gravel, president & chairman of the board of the Peabody Education Foundation.
North Shore Bank’s donation underscores its ongoing commitment to educational advancement, youth development, and community wellness throughout the North Shore. Through the bank’s charitable giving initiative, The Giving Tree, it remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that uplift local families and strengthen community connections.
In This Photo:
Mary Bellavance, vice-chairwoman, Peabody Education Foundation
Christopher Pesce, VP, community relations officer, North Shore Bank, board of directors’ member, Peabody Education Foundation
David Gravel, chairman, Peabody Education Foundation
Kevin M. Tierney, Sr., executive chairman, North Shore Bank
Michael R. Wheller, president and CEO, North Shore Bank
Dr. Josh Vadala, Superintendent of Schools, City of Peabody, board of directors’ member, Peabody Education Foundation
Dan Vassallo, treasurer and executive board member, Peabody Education Foundation
