LEWISTON – Androscoggin Bank continues as a major supporter of the Central Maine Heart Walk to benefit the American Heart Association. In addition, bank President Steve Closson is serving as chairman. The American Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s premiere walking and fund-raising event that garners money to fight heart disease and stroke.

“Heart disease is the number one killer of men and the number one killer of women in the United States. The numbers are staggering – heart disease kills more Americans every year than all forms of cancer, respiratory diseases, accidents, diabetes and the flu combined,” said Closson. “Money raised by the heart walk helps fund vital research and community education programs right here in Maine.”

Scheduled for Sept. 26 at Montello School, the Central Maine Heart Walk has a fund-raising goal of $85,000 and a goal of 750 walkers. The Lewiston event is one of approximately 800 walks across the United States that last year raised $80 million.

Money raised through the walk is used to fund life-saving research, educational programs for medical professionals and the public, as well as community outreach and prevention programs.

In addition to promoting healthy lifestyles throughout the community and youth education programs, the heart association funds scientific research, including the Maine-based research facilities of Maine Medical Center, Central Maine Medical Center and Jackson Laboratories.

“Androscoggin Bank is proud to do its share of supporting and improving the communities we serve while participating in an event that brings people together in a fun and healthy environment,” added Closson.

For more information about the walk, contact Katie Rooks, special events director, at 879-5700.