New Bedford’s Citizens~Union Savings Bank has set aside $25,000 to be donated to nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to the residents of New Bedford.

The announcement was made by Executive Vice President Carl Taber at a ribbon-cutting/reception held yesterday at the bank’s newest branch, at 1000 Ashley Blvd. in New Bedford.

"We are delighted to be increasing our presence in the New Bedford market and wanted to do something to make a difference for the community," Taber said.

Citizens~Union Savings Bank began the program by contacting charitable organizations in New Bedford asking for their willingness to participate in the program. The bank has compiled a list of qualified nonprofits and is leaving the decision in the hands of the citizens who vote at their bank branch. New Bedford residents will be asked to vote for one organization from the list and drop their ballot in the ballot box located in the Citizens~Union branch at 1000 Ashley Blvd. Ballots will be collected through Oct. 16 and the winners and amounts will be announced Oct. 30.