"Access to Spanish-speaking staff and customized bank products, along with a keen interest in establishing partnerships with Hispanic business owners, professionals and entrepreneurs, have been strategic elements of Provident Bank's push for heightened visibility in Maryland, DC and Virginia," said White Flint Branch Manager Milvia Garrido. "I strongly believe that this initiative gives the bank an opportunity to reach the Hispanic community and understand the special needs of Latinos," she added.

A wide range of services, including a "Language Line" interpreter service, have been put in place to meet the retail banking needs of Hispanic customers, while also providing them with better accessibility. These resources include acceptance of the Matricula Consular Card, bilingual Spanish ATM options and the ITIN Mortgage product for permanent and non-permanent residents. The ITIN Mortgage allows foreign nationals to obtain mortgages for second homes and investment properties in the U.S. using an individual taxpayer identification number in place of a Social Security number. With programs geared toward helping first-time homebuyers, and having a full-time bilingual mortgage sales and loan processing staff, Provident is unique to other banks looking to leverage opportunities within the Hispanic community.