to a charity that mentors children from single-parent families.

The Bank of Butterfield contributed $5,000 to Big Brothers and Big Sisters recently to ensure they practise "good corporate citizenship'', said one executive.

Stephen Daley, Assistant Vice-President of Corporate Communications, said: "We have our values, that is being a good corporate citizen and giving back to the community of which we serve.'' He said the donation was a democratic decision by Bank staff and an alternative to sending cards this season.

"This is to get a maximum community impact.'' Mr. Daley added.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters President Julie Hamshere accepted the check at The Royal Gazette and said the money would go toward operating costs.

"We're trying to recruit more Big Brothers to join the programme,'' she said.

"We survive off of this money.'' Bermuda is always looking for volunteers and can be reached at 292-2802.