A group of 22 local banks serving the Northwest Arkansas region have issued a joint statement urging customers to communicate with them for help navigating the current COVID-19 crisis.

The statement recognized that though most local banks have restricted lobby access, drive-thru, ATMs, tele-banking, online, and mobile banking platforms are open.

The banks issued the statement in a press release distributed by the Northwest Arkansas Council on Friday afternoon.

The full statement is below.

A message to the Northwest Arkansas community from your regional bankers: Anstaff Bank, Arvest Bank, Centennial Bank, Farmers & Merchants Bank/Bank of Fayetteville, First Security Bank, Regions Bank, Signature Bank of Arkansas, Chambers Bank, Citizens Bank, Encore Bank, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, First Community Bank, First National Bank, First National Bank of NWA, First Western Bank, Generations Bank, Grand Savings Bank, Great Southern Bank, IBERIABANK, Legacy National Bank, Simmons Bank and Today’s Bank.

Banks in Northwest Arkansas are dedicated to serving our customers and supporting our communities. During this time of great uncertainty, we are united in a common goal of assisting customers impacted by the COVID-19 coronavirus. We are actively monitoring the situation on the local and national level and remain a trusted resource for our customers.

Through the guidance of medical and governmental leadership for social distancing, many banks across the region have restricted lobby access. Fortunately, we are equipped with drive-through banking facilities, ATMs, telebanking and online and mobile banking platforms.

If you have been financially impacted by COVID-19, we may have customized solutions available. From individuals struggling with mortgage payments to small-business owners impacted by mandatory closures, we recommend working directly with your financial institution to tailor a personalized solution. Every situation is unique and there is no right answer for everyone.

Here are some strategies to keep in mind as you consider your options:

Keep the Communication Lines Open
Situations can change by the hour. Keeping your banker up to speed is vital.

Work with Your Banker on Strategic Decisions
Every situation takes on a different set of circumstances, both for you and your bank. Reach out to your personal banker and update them on your current status, changes and any pending decisions. There may be multiple options to consider as we navigate this critical time.

There are also many resources at the state and national level that may provide financial assistance for individuals and small businesses in need of support. Check with your local banker to identify a program that might work for you.

Your banker is your partner. During this time of crisis, we want you to know you can count on us. Contact us today.