Bank of Canton to Participate in Mortgage Relief Fund Program.

April 2008- Bank of Canton is increasing its proactive efforts to assist homeowners in avoiding foreclosure. George DeMello, Senior Vice President of Residential Lending for Bank of Canton is pleased to announce that Bank of Canton has joined as a participant in the Massachusetts Bankers Association and Federal Reserve Bank of Boston's Mortgage Relief Fund Program.

The Mortgage Relief Fund was started by five regional banks in conjunction with the Boston Fed to assist borrowers facing rate adjustments and payment increases to avoid foreclosure. According to a survey released by the Warren Group, the number of foreclosure deeds recorded statewide more than doubled in February 2008 compared to a year earlier. To help combat this rising problem, the Massachusetts Bankers Association has expanded the Mortgage Relief Fund to include community banks throughout the Commonwealth.

According to DeMello, Bank of Canton, as part of its participation in the Mortgage Relief Fund, has agreed to make available a pre-determined amount of money that can be used by qualified borrowers to refinance their homes through a variety of mortgage products.

"Bank of Canton looks forward to actively participating in this program and helping our customers refinance at a more affordable rate," said DeMello. "We offer a wide variety of mortgage programs, and we work with our customers to find the one that best fit their needs."

For more information or to see if you qualify for the Mortgage Relief Fund, contact the Bank of Canton at 888.828.1690 or visit them on the web at www.ibankcanton.com.