A Bermuda bank has launched a charity drive as part of a plan to underline the spirit of Christmas.

The Capital G ‘Holiday Giving Back’ — the seventh of its type — aims to raise funds for the charity Meals on Wheels.

Capital G president and CEO Ian Truran said: “With a mission to allow Capital G employees, customers and the entire community to collaboratively provide assistance to local charitable efforts during the season of giving, the ‘Holiday Giving Back’ programme was implemented seven years ago and has now launched for 2013.

“We are committed to helping programmes like Meals on Wheels during the continuing economic hardships that Bermuda is facing and believe that our efforts will help provide important resources to an organisation that is committed to the needs of the community.”

The charity scheme last year donated more than $10,000 to charity — and the bank said that, despite the recession, it was hoped to mobilise the community to help those who, for health, age or disability reasons, depended on Meals on Wheels to deliver hot food to their homes.

Mr Truran added: “Capital G understands the importance of being an active partner in our community, even providing charitable assistance beyond donations.

“In fact, Capital G employees will volunteer at Meals on Wheels during the week of Thanksgiving to assist with meal preparation and delivery.”

Capital G staff will also take to the streets with Meals on Wheels to collect donations during the Gibbons Company charity shopping day on Friday, December 6, when customers who donate at least $5 will get a 20 percent discount on purchases.

Every Friday in December will also see sister firm Burrows Lightbourn giving a ten percent discount on alcohol purchases between 5pm and 9pm to customers who donate a minimum of $5.

All donated funds will be matched by Capital G up to a capped amount and donations can also be made through a special account at the bank.

Director and chairman of Meals on Wheels Joe Gibbons said: “We are again very appreciative of Capital G Bank for their support this holiday season and are honoured to be selected as the recipient of their seventh annual ‘Holiday Giving Back’ programme.

“We continue to see increasing demand for our services during these difficult times and we are determined to continue to operate at the capacity needed to serve the needs of the community.

“On behalf of Meals on Wheels, I would like to thank Capital G for their partnership through the years and the continuing commitment they have shown by again providing us with much-needed assistance during the holidays.”

Anyone who wants to donate through Capital G can use special ‘Holiday Giving Back’ quick deposit envelopes at the main branch in Hamilton’s Reid Street or at Paget Plaza on South Road.

Alternatively, donations can be made at teller windows at both locations or through online banking to the Capital G Giving Back account.

For more information or to make a donation, contact 294-5194 or e-mail giveback@capitalg.bm.