News/Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 4, 2005

Hancock Bank establishes relief account for tsunami victims

GULFPORT, MS (January 4, 2005 ) - Hancock Bank has established a benefit account to provide aid for victims of the recent earthquake and tsunamis devastating southern Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

For security reasons, Hancock Bank does not publish benefit account numbers. However, area residents can contribute to the account by visiting any local Hancock Bank branch and asking to donate specifically to the Hancock Bank Tsunami Benefit Account.

"Our Hancock Bank family joins the entire global community in extending deepest, heartfelt sympathy to those suffering this unimaginable tragedy and hope this benefit account can help provide food, water, supplies, shelter, and medical care for survivors of this disaster," said Hancock Bank President and Chief Executive Officer George A. Schloegel.

Instigated by Hancock Bank employees to help worldwide relief efforts, the account supports the Salvation Army World Service Office South Asia Relief Fund.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION
R. Paul Maxwell, VP & Corporate Communications Manager
800.522.6542 (ext. 5252) or 228.214.5252
paul_maxwell@hancockbank.com