Eastern Bank has agreed to match donations to a fund that will be used to open pools in Lowell this summer.

Dubbed "Make a Splash in Lowell," the public-private partnership will attempt to raise $50,000 – with half coming from public contributions and half from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation.

"As revenues decline and expenses rise, cities like Lowell are being forced to make tough choices these days," said Robert F. Rivers, president of Eastern Bank. "We hope this program will eliminate at least one of those choices, while providing the city’s kids with a safe place to go and create a few jobs along the way."

All donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar from the bank’s foundation until the $50,000 goal is met. Donations can be made at any Eastern Bank branch in Greater Lowell or online at www.easternbank.com/makeasplash. The online donations are being arranged through the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, which is supporting the initiative by assisting with the fundraising effort.

"While we are faced with tough fiscal choices, the city is committed to providing safe, fun recreation for kids all summer long," said Lowell City Manager Bernie Lynch. "The more we can find creative solutions with opportunities for public-private partnerships, the more we can ensure that city of Lowell residents get the best services possible."