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The holiday season is here, and with it comes an important question: Where will you spend — and give — your hard-earned dollars?

This time of year is all about generosity, whether you're supporting a favorite charity, volunteering your time, tipping a little extra, or choosing to shop local. Every act of giving strengthens our community in meaningful ways.

At ESB Financial, we’re committed to supporting the people and businesses that make our communities strong — and we encourage you to join us in giving back and shopping local this season.

Reasons to Shop Local

Boost Your Local Economy

When you buy from a local business, you're doing more than just shopping — you're giving back to your community. Dollars spent locally are far more likely to stay within the area, supporting small business owners, creating local jobs, and strengthening the local banks that help them grow.

Build Community Connections

Shopping local naturally builds community. Many small shops host holiday open houses, donation drives, and festive events that bring neighbors together. Supporting these businesses is another form of giving — you're investing your time, presence, and resources in the people around you.

Save While Supporting Local

Many small businesses offer great holiday deals, but the real value often comes from the personal service, craftsmanship, and care they provide. When you shop local, you’re giving yourself — and your loved ones — something you won’t find anywhere else: unique gifts with a personal touch.

Ways to Support Local Businesses (and Give Back This Season)

• Support Local Causes: Many businesses partner with charities during the holidays. Your purchase may help fund local food drives, children’s programs, or community initiatives.

• Volunteer at Holiday Events: Markets, parades, and nonprofit organizations often need volunteers — a simple way to give your time.

• Be Extra Generous with Tips: Whether it's the barista who knows your order or the delivery driver braving the cold, a little extra generosity can go a long way.

• Buy Gift Cards: Gift cards support small businesses immediately and give the recipient the joy of choosing what they love.

• Attend Holiday Markets: These events support artists, makers, farmers, and bakers while giving you unique gift options.

• Follow Local Shops on Social Media: This boosts their visibility and helps you stay informed about specials and community events.

Shop Local… Bank Local… Give Local

Giving isn’t just about donations — it’s about choosing to invest in your community with every dollar you spend. Banking locally is another powerful way to do that. Local banks partner with small businesses, nonprofits, and families to build a thriving community for everyone.

At ESB Financial, we believe that when you support a small business, volunteer your time, or give to a local cause, you are helping someone’s dream grow. And we’re honored to be part of that story.

Thank you for choosing to shop, bank, and give local this holiday season.

Learn more at esbfinancial.com.