Fall River-based Citizens Union Savings Bank has pledged $500,000 in support of the Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care in Fall River and the new flagship outpatient facility in Fairhaven.

The pledge is the largest ever made by a financial institution to Southcoast Hospitals Group, according to a statement.

"We are extremely thankful to Citizens Union Savings Bank for their most generous support of Southcoast’s comprehensive oncology program," said John B. Day, president and CEO of Southcoast Health System. "Creating a state-of-the art cancer program that serves that entire Southcoast region is not just a Southcoast initiative, it is an endeavor of the entire community that will saves lives for years to come."

"It is our strong belief that offering fully integrated, compassionate cancer care close to home should be a priority for the community – that is why Citizens Union has given this gift," said Nicholas M. Christ, president and CEO of Citizens Union Savings Bank said.