COVID-19's ULSSOH HHFW on lending The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped daily life, including how community banks and their business customers interact. It's precisely because of the crucial role they play in their communities that community banks have stepped up to aid customers, provide financial relief and continue to make loans during this uncertain time. By Beth Mattson-Teig C OMMUNITY BANKERS are rising to the challenge of providing needed relief to business customers and communities reeling from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of their proximity to customers, deep relationships and prior disaster planning, community banks have been able to act quickly and proactively to get needed information and resources in the hands of customers despite the turmoil. During the coronavirus crisis, bankers say outreach via specialized website pages, social media posts, digital advertising and emails to customers has been vital. " As the only remaining locally based bank in our area, we approach 50 Q ICBA Independent Banker Q June 2020