Bank of New Hampshire Donates $5,000 to CATCH’s Eastern Avenue Project 

Laconia, New Hampshire – April 16, 2026 – The rental vacancy rate in Merrimack County, New Hampshire remains below 1%, while median gross rents have risen to approximately $2,000 per month. This housing shortage disproportionately impacts low-to-moderate income families, particularly individuals with developmental disabilities, who face limited access to affordable, supportive housing.  

To help address this need, CATCH, in partnership with Community Bridges, is investing in the redevelopment of a building on Eastern Avenue in Concord. Bank of New Hampshire is proud to support this effort with a $5,000 donation to fund engineering assessments as part of the project’s predevelopment phase. 

“We are pleased to support CATCH in helping address the shortage of affordable housing options for low- to moderate-income individuals with developmental disabilities,” said Ally Wendelken, AVP – CRA & Assistant Compliance Officer at Bank of New Hampshire. “Affordable housing remains a key focus of our charitable giving, as the need for accessible housing continues to grow.” 

Upon completion of predevelopment work, and once city approvals are confirmed, CATCH will move forward with securing funding to transform the Eastern Avenue property into what is proposed to be a modern, two-story, accessible 14,768-square foot residential building. The development will include 16 one-bedroom apartments for residents and two additional units for on-site direct support professionals. 

“We appreciate Bank of New Hampshire’s support of our Eastern Avenue project,” said Tom Furtado, CATCH President and CEO. “Every dollar invested in predevelopment brings us closer to securing the resources needed to make this critical housing a reality for these underserved New Hampshire residents.” 

Located in Concord, NH, CATCH is a 501(c)3 community-based nonprofit organization that has been providing a full spectrum of housing, financial and resident services in Merrimack County and across New Hampshire for more than thirty-six years. The organization meets community needs by developing new affordable workforce housing and revitalizing existing properties in areas with limited rental options. To learn more, visit catchhousing.org. 

Founded in 1831, Bank of New Hampshire is the oldest and one of the largest independent banks headquartered in the state. With assets exceeding $2.5 billion and 21 banking offices across New Hampshire and southern Maine, the bank provides comprehensive deposit, lending and wealth management solutions for families and businesses. As a mutual organization, Bank of New Hampshire is focused on the success of its customers, communities and employees—rather than stockholders. With a legacy of strength and stability, the bank combines local decision-making and trusted guidance with modern technology to deliver a seamless banking experience. For more information, call 1.800.832.0912 or visit BNH.Bank. 

Photo: Ally Wendelken, AVP – CRA & Compliance Officer at Bank of New Hampshire, presents Tom Furtado, CATCH President and CEO, with a $5,000 donation to the Eastern Avenue project.