Dime Awards Grant to LIEOC for Community Services

On February 17, 2026, Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: DCOM) announced a significant grant to the Long Island Economic Opportunity Collaborative (LIEOC). This strategic financial support is aimed at enhancing academic and vocational training services designed to promote personal growth, career advancement, and social mobility within Nassau and Suffolk counties. The partnership between Dime and LIEOC underlines the bank's commitment to fostering economic opportunities and addressing the skills gap that often limits workforce participation in the region.

Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., the parent company of Dime Community Bank, has a solid financial standing, boasting approximately $15 billion in assets. The bank is recognized for holding the number one deposit market share among community banks in Greater Long Island, a notable achievement that reflects its strong community engagement and customer trust. This recent grant aligns with Dime's mission to contribute positively to the local economy and support initiatives that uplift the community.

The grant emphasizes the importance of training programs that can lead to long-term benefits such as improved employment prospects and overall economic mobility for residents. By investing in educational and vocational resources, Dime is not just supporting immediate community needs but is also helping to create a skilled workforce prepared for future challenges.

As part of its broader community commitment, Dime Community Bank continues to explore avenues that enhance the quality of life for individuals and families in its service areas. The collaboration with LIEOC is a foundational step in addressing local educational and economic hurdles, marking Dime's ongoing dedication to fostering a sustainable future for Long Island's communities.

For inquiries related to this initiative, investors and community members can contact Avinash Reddy, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, using the provided contact details.

The recent announcement by Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. regarding its grant to the Long Island Economic Opportunity Collaborative (LIEOC) is noteworthy, particularly for investors and community stakeholders interested in the intersection of banking, community development, and economic resilience. The allocation aims to boost academic and vocational training opportunities in Nassau and Suffolk counties, reinforcing the bank's commitment to supporting long-term social mobility and workforce readiness in these regions.

From a market perspective, this strategic initiative could enhance Dime's reputation as a socially responsible lender, which can attract both consumers and investors who prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. A strong community-centric approach can lead to increased customer loyalty, potentially translating into higher retention rates and a more stable deposit base. With approximately $15 billion in assets and a leading deposit market share among community banks in Greater Long Island, Dime's proactive measures can solidify its standing and promote growth.

However, investors should remain cautious of the inherent risks acknowledged in the forward-looking statements section of the announcement. Economic fluctuations, changes in regulatory frameworks, and unforeseen operational challenges could impact the proposed outcomes of such community investments. Monitoring these factors as they develop will be crucial.

In conclusion, while the grant to LIEOC presents an opportunity for Dime to reinforce its market position and uphold its community engagement promise, potential investors should conduct thorough due diligence on the broader economic environment and the bank's performance metrics. Keeping an eye on both local economic trends and the outcomes of this grant can provide deeper insights into Dime's strategic effectiveness moving forward, influencing investment decisions.