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Press Releases

Press releases are posted in chronological order - Please click the title to find the full detail.

12/20/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK COLLECTS TOYS FOR TOTS

12/12/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK RECOGNIZED BY YMCA OF THE BRANDYWINE VALLEY

12/10/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK TEAM LEADERS TO TACKLE BUSINESS BLITZ

11/9/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORTS COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE

11/5/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK PRESENTS CHECK TO HATBORO-HORSHAM MARCHING BAND

10/29/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK HOLDS GRAND OPENING OF NEWEST BRANCH IN OXFORD, PA

10/15/07
WILLOW FINANCIAL BANK CEO RECEIVED NATIONAL HONOR

11/2/05
GREATER WILLOW GROVE GOLF OPEN "BENEFITING GREATER WILLOW GROVE GOLF CHARITIES"

10/27/05
WILLOW GROVE BANK THANKS MOUNT CARMEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

10/26/05
WILLOW GROVE BANK NORTH WALES READING PROGRAM - READERS LEARN WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A REPORTER

9/6/05
WILLOW GROVE BANK & FIRST FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORT THE AMERICAN RED CROSS TO AID VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

PHILADELPHIA CORPORATION FOR INVESTMENT SERVICES

August 21, 2006
Wayne, PA: Philadelphia Corporation for Investment Services (PCIS) announced the appointment of Jan R. Carr to the position of President/CEO. Carr joined PCIS in September of 1993. “In my new role as Chairman, I am focused on developing and delivering the highest standards of service quality for our customers,” stated Carr, “With changes in the market over the past few years, investors are realizing now, more than ever, working with a partner in financial portfolio management is essential”. “Philadelphia Corporation is committed to being an industry leader with a ‘hands-on’ customer approach from seasoned investment management professionals. We have a clear focus on the specific needs of each individual client and avoid pre-packaged approaches. I am looking forward to expanding our team, and certainly proud to lead our sales and communications efforts.”

Jan is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and a member of the Philadelphia Securities Association. He resides in Fort Washington, PA with his wife, Frances and their two children.

PCIS is a securities Broker/Dealer licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The Firm is also an Investment Advisor, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Through its’ clearing broker, Pershing, LLC, clients of Philadelphia Corporation have seamless access to virtually all securities markets. They provide services for individual and institutional investors for pensions, profit sharing, Keoghs, IRAs and Trusts. Meetings can be arranged at their Wayne office or in any of First Financial Bank’s thirteen offices in Chester County or Willow Grove Bank’s fourteen offices in Bucks, Montgomery Counties or Northeast Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Corporation is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, which provides insurance of up to $500,000 per account for securities held through the firm, including $100,000 for cash. Excess coverage is provided through our clearing firm, Pershing, LLC at no cost to clients. Additional information can be provided upon request. Philadelphia Corporation for Investment Services can be found on the web at www. PCISonline.com.

WILLOW GROVE AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORT NORTH PENN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

July 18, 2001
The temperature was hot but the enthusiasm was hotter for over 100 golfers preparing to play 18 holes at the 54th Annual North Penn Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing held at Blue Bell Country Club. The event included lunch, dinner, open bar and a silent auction.

Willow Grove and First Financial Bank provided a special “ball scramble”. Two lucky golfers who found a colored ball in their boxes won customized putters. Prior to dinner, Michael Owens, President and CEO of the chamber, thanked all the sponsors for their participation and gave special praise to the volunteers who sat in the sweltering heat providing beverages to the golfers.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered Savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS: WGBC). The Bank has 28 offices throughout Bucks, Chester, Montgomery Counties and NE Philadelphia with corporate headquarters and operations in Wayne, Pa. For more information regarding the Bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK HONOR ELLEN ANN ROBERTS

July 11, 2006
Downingtown, PA community leaders, business owners and residents gathered recently for the dedication of the Ellen Ann Roberts Flag Pole, located at the Downingtown Area Chamber of Commerce building on Lancaster Avenue in the heart of Downingtown. The Chamber organized the event, which was followed by a picnic lunch. Invited guests included members of Ellen Ann’s family and past and present employees of First Financial Bank Division of Willow Grove Bank.

“Ms. Roberts, among her many business and community service awards, was the recipient of the Chairman’s Award by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh for her continuing efforts to support affordable housing in Chester County. And she was the driving force behind improvements to the Downingtown business District,” noted Colin Maropis, Chester County Regional President for the Bank. First Financial and Willow Grove Bank are proud to continue Ellen Ann’s outstanding legacy of giving back to the communities we serve. We are privileged to be here today to honor her memory.”

The Bank, founded as Downingtown Building and Loan Association in 1922 by Ellen Ann’s father, Chandler P. Roberts, was her center of focus for 52 years until her passing in October of 2000. Ellen Ann had risen through the ranks to become the Bank’s Chairman of the Board and CEO.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally-chartered Savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank has 28 offices throughout Bucks, Chester and Montgomery Counties and NE Philadelphia with corporate headquarters and operations in Wayne, PA. For more information regarding the Bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

WILLOW GROVE AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK INVITE STUDENTS TO JOB SHADOW

June 20, 2006
Maple Glen PA: Job Shadow is an academically motivating activity designed to give young children an up-close look at the working world and an opportunity to ask questions. Accompanied by their parents, students representing the 5th grade from North Wales, Overlook, Fort Washington, Perelman Jewish Day School and Maple Glen Elementary schools were invited to visit First Financial and Willow Grove Bank, Regional Headquarters, located in Maple Glen to observe the many aspects of running a bank.

After meeting with the Bank’s Regional President, John T. Powers, the students were given an opportunity to tour the Bank and meet with some of the employees. They went behind the teller station to observe the interaction between tellers and customers, continued on inside the vault and discussed the need for safe deposit boxes with the Bank Manager. Then it was off to lunch.

The students did not come unprepared. The Bank assists all five schools by providing a financial literacy curriculum and assists the students in the creation and operation of their own school-wide-bank.

FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK SPONSOR THE GREAT SHREDDER EVENTS

June 1, 2006
Wayne, PA: First Financial and Willow Grove Bank are the presenting sponsors for the Great Shredder Events taking place across Southeastern Pennsylvania. Working with the NBC 10 Consumer Alert team to offer the free shredding events to consumers.

Identity Theft is a real and non-discriminating threat that affects us all. It is no longer safe to just toss financial documents, bills, personal records or even junk mail in the trash. Even some at-home shredders can leave information visible enough to be used in a fraudulent manner. So, what is a consumer to do in this age of pre-approved everything? Gather up those old documents, financial records and anything that contains personal information and bring them to one of the Great Shredder Events.

And that’s exactly what thousands of area residents are doing. The Great Shredder Events have recently been held at Willow Grove Bank’s Warminster York Road office and First Financial’s Airport Village Shopping center office in Coatesville. Consumers traveled over 90 minutes with their carloads of paper.

“As a financial institution that generates paperwork with sensitive information, we know the importance of information security and proper disposal of these types of documents,” noted Donna Coughey, President & CEO of Willow Grove Bank. “This event is a great fit for us and we are pleased to be able to work with NBC 10 and support the community in this way. It’s crucial to raise awareness of the serious nature of identity theft and demonstrate ways to protect yourself.”

The Great Shredder Events are offered to consumers and are held rain or shine. The shredders operate in self-contained trucks that use a form of crosscut shredding that reduces paper to crisscross cut confetti. The confetti pieces are then transferred to a recycling facility where they are turned into items such as recycled household paper products.

Visit the bank’s web site at willowgrovebank.com for future Shredder Event dates and locations as they become available.

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS: WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with additional branch locations in Bustleton, Dresher, Hatboro, Holland, Huntingdon Valley, North Wales, Rhawnhurst, Roslyn Valley, Somerton, Southampton, Warminster (two) and Willow Grove. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, has additional branch locations in Airport Village, Avondale, Brandywine Square, Coatesville, Devon, Eagle, Exton-Lionville, Frazer-Malvern, Kennett Square, Thorndale, West Chester and Westtown. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORT THE NORTH WALES READING PROGRAM

June 1, 2006
Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank in partnership with the North Wales Library kicked off its sixth year of their very successful reading program for children from various schools in the community. The reading group funded by the Bank, meets twice a month at Willow Grove Bank located at 122 Main Street in North Wales.

After reading a book called, “The Homework Machine”, a story about four students who invented a computer to do their homework, the readers had visitors from the North Penn High School Robotics team. Members of the team explained how they built a robot from scratch to compete against other teams at North Montco Technical Center.

The concept was based on filling their robot with 50 balls and direct them remotely into a basket similar to the game of basketball. The team actually brought their robot with them and the readers were fascinated to watch it in action. They learned the definition of a robot: “a mechanical device that is programmed to think and make decisions”. Members of the team hope to attend Drexel University with dreams of a career at Lockheed Martin, NASA, or working in the medical field. They encouraged those readers interested in Robotics to concentrate heavily in science and mathematics.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the Bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WAGNER HIRED AS CHIEF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

May 16, 2006
Wayne, PA: First Financial and Willow Grove Bank announce the hiring of Allen Wagner as Chief Human Development and Communications Officer. He has extensive experience and will be responsible for directing the activities in the Human Resource Department, Training and the Marketing Department.

“The past year has been one of tremendous growth and change for us,” noted Bank President and CEO Donna Coughey. “Allen’s experience will help us manage and develop our most important asset in delivering quality banking services: our staff.

Allen comes to the Bank with over 18 years of executive level HR and O/D experience. Previously, Allen served as Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Training for Patriot Bank. His work contributed to that Bank’s winning the “Best Place to Work in PA” Award in 2003. He developed a bank-wide leadership development program and had complete responsibility for all aspects of HR, training and development.

“First Financial and Willow Grove Bank are committed to providing the staff with an exceptional work environment,” observed Wagner. “The programs we are beginning to implement are designed to make us an ‘Employer of Choice’ in our market. These programs are important not only to the staff, but also to our customers who will get even better service as a result of the focus. We are making a significant investment in terms of time and money and believe the results will be immediately apparent to everyone who interacts with the Bank.”

A life long resident of Berks County, Allen has served as a Board Member for the Institute of the Arts, Wyomissing Pa., and Chairman of the Employment Committee for the Berks County Chamber of Commerce, and as an Adjunct Instructor for the Reading Area Community College, teaching organizational behavior and communications. Also he was the statewide chair of the PBA Training and Communications Advisory Committee.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAM SPONSORED BY FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK

May 8, 2006
Willy the Bear escorted Regional Bank President John T. Powers as he read to kindergarten and first grade students at Fort Washington Elementary School the Berenstain Bears, “Trouble with Money”. The children listened quietly as Sister and Brother Bear learned how to save money and put it into a bank for safekeeping. This reading was part of “National Teach Children to Save Day”, supported by the American Bankers Association Education Foundation. Mr. Powers handed out a piggy bank filled with spare change to each student in order to help teach the importance of savings.

This reading is part of the existing “In-School Banking Program” that began at Fort Washington in 2004. The Bank assisted students in the creation and opening of their own school-wide-bank and also provides curriculums from Kindergarten through the Sixth grade. The curriculum also being taught at Maple Glen, North Wales, Overlook and the Perelman School, the cost of which is underwritten by First Financial and Willow Grove Bank. Those interested in the curriculum find more information at willowgrovebank.com under Community Outreach and the subsequent links for Financial Literacy.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered Savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go to willowgrovebank.com.

RICHARD HYMANSON HIRED AS SENIOR VP – CHIEF RETAIL OFFICER

5/8/06
Downingtown, PA: First Financial and Willow Grove Bank has announced the hiring of Richard Hymanson as Senior Vice President and Chief Retail Officer. Rick will be responsible for all branch banking, including creating and implementing initiatives that maintain the highest levels of customer satisfaction and growth.

Richard brings extensive experience to the Bank, most recently as Senior Vice President and Director of Sales for Citizens Bank. He has a strong record of driving performance and improvement at all levels of an organization through the coaching and developing managers and staff.

“We are very pleased to have Rick join our team,” noted Donna Coughey, Bank President and CEO. “The Bank has aggressive goals for our branches in terms of customer service. That includes proactively identifying relevant services for our customers they may not have already considered. Rick will help improve our already strong performance in this area.”

Richard earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Penn State University, as well as Stonier Graduate School of Banking from Rutgers University. He also attended the Leadership and Management Development Program from the University of Michigan.

“First Financial and Willow Grove Bank have strong reputations for providing highly personalized financial services to their customers,” noted Hymanson. “I am proud to join a team that places such high value on their clients. I believe that their focus will give them a continued advantage in the southeastern Pennsylvania communities which they serve.”

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

KILLEEN HIRED AS CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE AND RISK OFFICER FOR FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK

May 3, 2006
Downingtown, PA: First Financial and Willow Grove Bank has announced the hiring of Patrick Killeen as Chief Administrative and Risk Officer. He will be instrumental in ensuring seamless customer service support through the branch network, consumer and commercial lending areas, wealth management, small business loan area, and private / public sector area.

“Patrick brings a wealth of knowledge regarding processes and systems,” noted Donna Coughey, President and CEO of Willow Grove Bank. “His dedication to offering customers exemplary service through support services and efficient processes matches the commitment of the Bank to focus on the customer experience.”

Patrick earned his degree from Drexel University in 1992 and previously worked for Cross Country Bank, MBNA America Bank and KPMG, Philadelphia, Pa. His thirteen years of experience includes Internal Audit, Collections, Corporate Communications, and Process Re-engineering.

“I see the back office processes and systems as a support mechanism for serving our customers,” noted Patrick. “Controls are important from a regulatory and safety standpoint, but they all ultimately exist to better serve our customers. My goals are to ensure that our customers can rely on the efficient and secure handling of their transactions. Having that shared focus with the Bank is what attracted me to them. The integration of customer service standards with all back office functions makes this Bank special in its market. I feel fortunate to be part of the team.”

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered Savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

THE SUSAN G. KOMEN SURVIVOR'S LUNCHEON SPONSORED BY FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK

May 2, 2006
Over “One Thousand” cancer survivors attended the Susan G. Komen Survivor’s Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency at Penn’s Landing. Individuals came as far away as Delaware and locally from Huntingdon Valley and Dresher Pennsylvania. Survivors joined in a celebration of life by sharing their stories and successes, laughing and crying at the events in their lives which brought them renewed hope and an understanding that “we will survive”. First Financial and Willow Grove Bank sponsored the table centerpieces, beautifully created by H & D Design located in Willow Grove, Pa.

The survivors in attendance have redefined their roles and responsibilities in life. Each has exhibited true heroism through doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways and providing friendship and support to others in need. Their survival becomes a source of strength and support for others going through similar challenges.

As a part of the celebration, 38 outstanding women were chosen by local hospitals and organizations for their incredible commitment to their communities in fighting breast cancer. Sherrie Grasty received the Champion of Magnetism award from Abington Hospital for her positive outlook and dedicated spirit which attracts countless others to join in the quest for a breast cancer cure.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered Savings Bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 14 additions in Chester County. For more information regarding the Bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

KAY FALKOW PROMOTED TO DIRECTOR OF IT AND DEPOSIT OPERATIONS AT FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK

April 4, 2006
Downingtown, PA: Willow Grove Bank has announced the promotion of Kay Falkow to Director of IT and Deposit Operations.

“Kay is an exceptional individual,” noted Joseph Crowley, Chief Financial Officer. “Kay has been instrumental in coordinating many of the details involved in branch acquisitions over the past several years and the merger of the First Financial and Willow Grove Bank computer systems and IT departments. Her ability to deliver on the highest-level objectives while managing the necessary details and maintaining focus on the customer makes her an outstanding leader. We feel fortunate to have her as part of our team.”

Kay earned her degree from Radford University in Virginia in 1980 and has worked at the Bank since February 1993. Previously, she worked in various positions in audit, accounting and information at First Virginia Banks, Inc.

“My goal is to implement all projects and direct daily work to minimize impact and maximize benefit to our personal banking, small business and commercial customers,” explains Falkow. “Every staff member of the Bank knows that our service level is what sets us apart from our competition. I’m proud to work in an organization that places service as its primary measure of success.”

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

WILLOW GROVE BANK AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK ANNOUNCE THE GRAND OPENING OF A UNIQUE NEW BANK

December 20, 2005
Bank Yeladim, which means Children’s Bank, officially opened during a dedication ceremony at the Perelman Jewish Day School, Forman Center, located in Melrose Park. Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank assisted the students at Perelman Elementary with a ribbon cutting, launching their new bank as part of the Bank’s Financial Literacy Program. The ceremony was attended by 200 students, representatives from the Bank, school staff and distinguished guests including; Anita Block, Principal, Jay Leberman, Head Master, Donna Coughey, President and CEO of Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank, and Shirley Kahn, Math Coordinator.

During the ceremony Head Master, Jay Leberman spoke about the wisdom of King Solomon. He reminded the children “we must learn from the small creatures on earth, especially the ant, why, because this small insect has the knowledge to save food during the summer to exist during the winter”.

This award-winning program is the only one existing in the state of Pennsylvania. The curriculum was created by Neale S. Godfrey, former Vice President of Chase Manhattan Bank and nationally recognized New York Times #1 best selling author of books on money for parents and children. According to Neale, “In 2001, more than 120,000 young people under the age of 25 filed for bankruptcy. Today students graduate from high school and don’t even know how to make change. Why? Because we never taught them.”

With this in mind Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank stepped up to the plate by providing their financial literacy program; starting with age appropriate first grade and continuing throughout schooling, ever year, up to sixth grade. Teachers utilize the curriculum by integrating books, lesson plans and manipulatives into mathematics, language arts and/or social studies courses. Additional learning tools are made available from the Bank’s various resources including the ABA Educational Foundation’s – Teach children to Save curriculum including worksheets, puzzles and game handouts. The Bank’s Community Enrichment Program underwrites all costs for this program and underscores our tradition of providing financial support to the communities we serve.

Along with the curriculum the students launch their own in school Bank. On a voluntary basis they are issued individual passbook savings accounts. The special “Smart Saver” account is for kids only. It can be opened with as little as $1.00 and interest is earned once $50.00 is reached. The school bank runs on designated days. Classroom tellers collect the deposits in special envelopes and have the responsibility for making certain all necessary information is filled out. School Bank officers collect the envelopes from each classroom and deliver them to the main office – where the Bank’s local banking office staff picks them up. The Bank reconciles the accounts, updates the passbooks and returns them to the school. Having ownership of a passbook allows each student to watch his or her money grow. An incentive plan is also included so that students can earn rewards for good citizenship and service during the school year. Teaching good citizenship, random acts of kindness and responsible behavior are important. This program has now grown to partnerships with six schools in four school districts. North Wales, Fort Washington, Maple Glen, Overlook Elementary, the Perelman Jewish Day School, Forman Center, and soon to be at Perelman, Stern Center.

Financial illiteracy among our youth, across every stratum of America, is at an all time high. As educators, parents, business and community leaders we are failing to fulfill our responsibility to prepare today’s youth for tomorrow’s world economy. According to Donna Coughey, President and CEO of Willow Grove Bank, “as part of corporate America’s role, it is our responsibility to teach the basic financial skills that will help children grow to become successful adults.”

We need to make our children financially self sufficient by teaching them life skills in our schools and values in our homes. We must teach them to make wise decisions regarding money and how they handle it. We need to teach them where money comes from, the difference between ‘wants’ and ‘needs’ and why it’s important to save for the future. We view this as our mission.

WILLOW GROVE BANK AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORT ALEX'S LEMONADE STAND

December 19, 2005
During the month of August, 2005 Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank held their second annual Alex’s Lemonade Stand fundraiser. All 27 offices provided stands on the first and second Friday and Saturday. The event was co-sponsored by B101-FM, WXTU-FM, WMGK-FM and Disney Radio. Clemens Family Markets provided the lemonade mix and McDonalds donated the coolers and cups.

Through the efforts of the employees, customers and a grant from the Willow Grove Foundation a check was presented to Liz Scott, (Alex’s mom) for $25,000. This brings a two-year donation total from the bank to $55,000. There is an on-going account set-up for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at all 27 offices of Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank for anyone who would like to make a donation in the fight against pediatric cancer.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK AND FIRST FINANCIAL BANK HELP KATRINA VICTIMS

December 13, 2005
September 6th, 2005,Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank, in cooperation with the American Red Cross opened a special Hurricane Relief Fund at all 27 banking offices to accept donations to aid in disaster relief.

Funds were donated by the Board of Directors, Willow Grove Bank, First Financial Bank, customers and employees. A check for $55,000 was presented to the American Red Cross. The funds received will help all the communities in the Gulf Coast that suffered from Hurricane Katrina.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

SUSAN CAPOZZOLI JOINS FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK AS TRUST OFFICER

November 14, 2005
Downingtown, PA: First Financial and Willow Grove Bank announces the appointment of Susan Capozzoli as Trust Officer in the Investment Services and Trust Group located in the Downingtown office.

“Susan is an experienced Trust Administrator with many years of experience in Trust and asset management,” commented Tom Varley, Senior Vice President, Investment Services and Trust Division for First Financial Bank division of Willow Grove Bank. “Our customers’ needs will be well-served by the depth of her knowledge of trust, estate planning and investments. Susan is a great addition to our team.”

Ms. Capozzoli is a Certified Trust Financial Administrator with Series 6 and 63 licenses. She is currently attending American College and has completed coursework through Cannon Financial Institute and the American Bankers Association. Prior to joining Willow Grove Bank, she worked with The Vanguard National Trust Company and The Vanguard Group Inc. as a Trust Investment Manager for ten years. She has also previously worked with CoreStates Bank N.A. Susan resides with her family in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

“I’m excited to be a part of the phenomenal growth which the Bank is experiencing,” stated Ms. Capozzoli. “Our Trust Group provides close personal service to our clients. That type of contact is so important when you are handling trust and estate matters. Our work provides real financial solutions for those with personal and business concerns.”

“A strong experienced team of banking professionals is essential to serve the needs of our trust and investment clientele,” remarked Matthew Kelly, Chief Wealth Management Officer for Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc. “We are proud to provide our customers with the highest level of service in the market.”

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS: WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division is headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania with 13 additional branch locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the Bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK INSTALLS FREE COIN COUNTING MACHINES

November 8, 2005
Do you have loose change in your pockets? Are your piggy banks full? Stop by any First Financial or Willow Grove Bank office and turn your coins into cash. The Banks are now offering ”Coins To Cash” machines at all 27 offices. The coin counting service is free, quick and easy. Customers enjoy the convenience and are lining up to take advantage of the opportunity to get rid of their abundance of change. Instead of waiting for a teller to count your change now you are in charge.

Coins are deposited into the machines, automatically separated, counted and totaled. The machine prints out a slip that can be taken to the teller for deposit or cash.

Just ask Alyssa, Dante and Alessandra Messina. They each have their own “Smart Saver’s” account, a special passbook account for kids only that offers many incentives to teach children to save. They are seen here emptying their “Smart Saver” piggy banks.

Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

FIRST FINANCIAL AND WILLOW GROVE BANK SPONSOR THE GREAT SHREDDER EVENTS

November 4, 2005
Downingtown, PA: “Start those shredders!” was the battle cry in the latest effort to defeat Identity Theft. First Financial and Willow Grove Bank are participating as the presenting sponsors for the Great Shredder Events that are taking place across Southeastern Pennsylvania. The NBC 10 Consumer Alert team and Shred-It, the world’s leading mobile shredding and recycling company, have teamed up to offer the free shredding events to consumers.

Identity Theft is a real and non-discriminating threat that affects us all. It is no longer safe to just toss financial documents, bills, personal records or even junk mail in the trash. Even some at-home shredders can leave information visible enough to be used in a fraudulent manner. So, what is a consumer to do in this age of pre-approved everything? Gather up those old documents, financial records and anything that contains personal information and bring them to one of the Great Shredder Events.

And that’s exactly what thousands of area residents have done over the past few weeks. The Great Shredder Events have recently been held at Willow Grove Bank’s Huntingdon Valley office and First Financial’s Brandywine Square office in Downingtown. Some people traveled over 90 minutes with their carloads of paper.

“As a financial institution that generates paperwork with sensitive information, we know the importance of information security and proper disposal of these types of documents,” noted Suzanne Mooney, Director of Marketing for First Financial and Willow Grove Bank. “This event is a great fit for us and we are pleased to be able to work with NBC 10 and support the community in this way. It’s crucial to raise awareness of the serious nature of identity theft and demonstrate ways to protect yourself.”

The Great Shredder Events are offered to consumers and are held rain or shine. The shredders operate in self-contained trucks that use a form of crosscut shredding that reduces paper to crisscross cut confetti. The confetti pieces are then transferred to a recycling facility where they are turned into items such as recycled household paper products.

The next Great Shredder Event will be held from 10 AM to 1 PM at the NBC10 Consumer Expo on November 12th and 13th at the Fort Washington Expo Center.

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS: WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with additional branch locations in Bustleton, Dresher, Hatboro, Holland, Huntingdon Valley, North Wales, Rhawnhurst, Roslyn Valley, Somerton, Southampton, Warminster (two) and Willow Grove. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, has additional branch locations in Airport Village, Avondale, Brandywine Square, Coatesville, Devon, Eagle, Exton-Lionville, Frazer-Malvern, Kennett Square, Thorndale, West Chester and Westtown. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

GREATER WILLOW GROVE GOLF OPEN "BENEFITING GREATER WILLOW GROVE GOLF CHARITIES"

November 2, 2005
Willow Grove Bank was very proud to be a major sponsor at this years’ 37th Annual Golf Outing. The tournament held this year at Talamore Country Club was a large success drawing over 100 contributors.

This tournament is held every year in an effort to raise funds for local organizations such as; Second Alarmers, Willow Grove Literacy Council, 111th PA National Guard Family Readiness Group and the Visiting Nurses Association.

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK THANKS MOUNT CARMEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

October 27, 2005
“How Cool Is Carmel” was this year’s theme for the annual Carnival Flea Market celebrated in the fall at Mount Carmel Presbyterian Church. This year marks 28 years the church has put on this event. Volunteers from the church are in charge of various activities including; crafts, rides for the children, a flea market and bake sale.

The Board of Deacons decides what charities will receive funds raised from the event. This year the church had an Alex’s Lemonade Stand in support of the fight against pediatric cancer. They contacted Willow Grove Bank to let us know they would deposit the money raised into a special account at the bank for “Alex’s Lemonade Stand”. Through the enthusiasm and energy of the youth at Carmel, the church raised $2,000. Willow Grove Bank and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation appreciate their efforts.

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered savings bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania has 13 additional locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK NORTH WALES READING PROGRAM - READERS LEARN WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A REPORTER

October 26, 2005
Willow Grove Bank in partnership with the North Wales Library meets twice a month at the Bank located at 122 Main Street in North Wales. This month the book chosen to read was “Adam Canfield of The Slash”, written by Pulitzer Prize winning reporter for the New York Times, Michael Winerip. The book centered on a “crack” reporter who wrote for his Elementary/Middle School paper called the Slash.

Guest speaker Brian Bingaman, staff writer for The Reporter, based in Lansdale came to visit and talk about his experiences working for a newspaper. Ironically Brian began his career writing for his school newspaper called the “Arrow Head”, while attending Souderton High School. Today Brian enjoys writing about Arts and Entertainment for the weekend section.

Willow Grove Bank a federally chartered bank established in 1909 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq/NMS:WGBC). The Bank operates two divisions. The Willow Grove Division is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 14 additional branch locations in Eastern Montgomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia Counties. The First Financial Division, headquartered in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, has 13 additional branch locations in Chester County. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com.

WILLOW GROVE BANK & FIRST FINANCIAL BANK SUPPORT THE AMERICAN RED CROSS TO AID VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

September 6, 2005
Maple Glen, Pa (September 6, 2005) - Willow Grove Bank and First Financial Bank, in cooperation with the American Red Cross, have opened a special Hurricane Relief Fund at all 27 banking offices throughout the Delaware Valley, to accept donations to aid in disaster relief.

Donna M. Coughey, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Bank announced that Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc. and its Board of Directors will match funds donated by employees and the public up to $25,000.

Willow Grove Bancorp, Inc. is the holding company for Willow Grove Bank, a federally chartered savings bank. Willow Grove Bank was founded in 1909 and conducts its business from its headquarters in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, with 26 additional branch locations in Bustleton, Dresher, Hatboro, Holland, Huntingdon Valley, North Wales, Rhawnhurst, Roslyn Valley, Somerton, Southampton, Warminster (two), Willow Grove, Downingtown, Exton, Frazer, Thorndale, Westtown, Airport Village, Brandywine Square, Devon, Kennett Square, Eagle, Coatesville, Avondale and West Chester, Pennsylvania. For more information regarding the bank, go online to willowgrovebank.com

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