Battle of the Banks helps raise money, awareness for Safe Harbor Women's Clinic through Sept. 29

A fierce battle is raging through Sept. 29 in Selma between three banks in town. 

It’s the Battle of the Banks to benefit Safe Harbor Women’s Clinic.

The “battle” is between First Cahawba Bank, ASE Credit Union and Mutual Savings Credit Union. At each of these participating banks, you’ll find baby bottles on the counters at each teller window. Patrons are asked to put into the bottles any loose change, bills or even checks to help support Safe Harbor. The Battle of the Banks is raising funds and awarenessfor Safe Harbor.

“There is also signage there with the bottles with our name and QR code,”Candice Irwin, Safe Harbor outreach director, said. “They can scan that QR code, and it takes them to our website. So if they are not familiar with Safe Harbor they can learn about us, and there is a place on the website where they can donate.”

The money raised by the Battle of the Banks and donations online go to the operational expenses of Safe Harbor Women’s Clinic. 

“All of our services are free,” Safe Harbor Director Jennifer Dobbs said. “These funds will help to pay for free pregnancy test, free limited ultrasound, car seats for clients who come to our parenting classes and the materials for our parenting classes.” 

Dobbs said parenting classes are for any expectant mother and father regardless of age. 

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“What I really like about the Battle of the Banks is that it takes it beyond the churches and into the community,” she said. “It helps raise awareness that we’re here and what we do.” 

Irwin reported that the bank employees are working hard in the competition. 

“The tellers and employees are not even waiting for customers to ask what the baby bottles are for,” Irwin said.“They’re being proactive and explaining it to the customers.”  

The bank that collects the most money will get a trophy to display for the year until the next Battle of the Banks competition. Irwin added, “They also have bragging rights for the year.”

Dobbs and Irwin said they hope to make this a fun event for the banks and their customers, and that next year more banks can participate. 

The battle rages on through Friday Sept. 29, so there is still time to stop by one of the three banks to donate. You can also donate and find more information on the Safe Harbor website www.safeharborwmc.org. Or call them at 334-875-8900.