Wainwright Bank Participates in Holocaust Survivor Fee Waiver Project

BOSTON, MA - December 1, 2006 - Wainwright Bank (NASDAQ: “WAIN”) today announced its participation in the Holocaust survivor fee waiver project endorsed by the American Association of Holocaust Survivors, the Massachusetts Division of Banks and the Massachusetts Bankers Association. In the program, banks agree to waive certain fees for Holocaust survivors.

Currently, over 2000 Holocaust survivors living in Massachusetts receive reparations or restitution payments from Germany or other European countries as a result of their status as victims of Nazi persecution. These payments are often charged an international wire transfer fee, typically $15, when the funds are transferred to a survivor’s accounts. The average age of a recipient is 80 years with most living in poverty. The payments generally range from $2,000 to $3,000 and are wired anywhere from once a month to once a year.

“We are pleased to participate in this program that provides financial relief for Holocaust survivors living in Massachusetts,” said Jan Miller, President and CEO of Wainwright Bank.

Banks in New York, California and Illinois have previously implemented similar programs.

With $800 million in assets, Boston-based Wainwright Bank is widely recognized as one of the most progressive community banks in the country. It has provided over $570 million in loan commitments for socially responsible development projects including affordable housing, environmental protection, HIV/AIDS services, immigration services and more. Recent recognition includes being ranked 18th among the “100 Best Corporate Citizens” by Business Ethics magazine.

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