The bank was originally founded in Hoboken, New Jersey in 1938 as the Haven Building & Loan Association. As the country and the state continued to emerge from the grips of the Great Depression, there became an increasing need for local, community-minded financial institutions to serve the needs of their neighboring communities. That was how Haven Savings Bank began and that mission still rings true today.
Our commitment to our customers, communities and employees is based on a foundation of trust and respect. We know that investing in our friends, neighbors and fellow business owners is the strongest path toward continued growth. One of our guiding principles is that providing superior customer service at every level of the organization earns the loyalty of those we do business with every day. In addition, we are always ready to invest our time, energy and talent to assist local charities, organizations and civic groups.
Today, Haven Savings Bank continues its proud tradition of embracing growth through sound banking philosophies and has nine branch locations across northern and central New Jersey with total assets of almost $1 billion.
Testimonials
“Congratulations in being named the Palmer Asphalt Company 2020 Partner of the Year. This accolade is in recognition of your assistance in accessing the Payroll Protection Program. All of you were easy to work with, were informative, responsive, and professional during a very hectic time. We were proud to learn that we were one of the first PPP loans you had that was accepted.”
“I have had a mortgage with Haven for 5 years now and it has been the nicest, easiest business experience I have ever had. Everyone has been so easy to work with, kind, reliable and fast. Julia helped me get my payoff statement quickly, and I know that if I had been with a ‘big bank’ this would never have gone so smoothly. I wish you and the Bank many more years of success and I will highly recommend you to anyone buying property. Many thanks!”
“Hi Roseanne. I want to thank you for the smooth refinancing appointment on Friday. It was a very comfortable experience and your execution shows that you are very knowledgeable and a valuable member of the Haven Savings Bank team. I have been involved with two banks prior to working with Haven and those banks did not perform nearly as well as you did. Your knowledge, support and dedication are truly valued by me. Having such a well informed employee is a rare find these days. Thank you for your time and assistance.”
“Hi Caresse. The cupcakes I dropped off were a small show of my appreciation for all that you have done to help me and my family through a very challenging time. Your professionalism, patience and the way you were so sincere in helping to guide me through the process made a very difficult time a lot easier. I have no words to describe what you’ve done for me and my family. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You are great at what you do and I am fortunate to have you on my side. Stay safe and be well!”
“On behalf of the Community of St. Anne’s Parish, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Haven Savings Bank who was involved in our recent Auction. Without you, we would not have been able to carry out this great day!”
News
July 18, 2024
Thank you for supporting Haven Savings Bank’s food drive
We’re excited to share that our recent bank-wide food drive was a tremendous success! Thanks to the generous contributions from our staff and customers, we were able to make a significant donation of food to St. Francis Church’s Father Michael Food Pantry.
The overwhelming support from our community has truly made a difference, and we are grateful for your kindness and generosity. Together, we’re helping to provide essential resources to those in need and making a positive impact in our community.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important cause. Your support means the world to us!
July 18, 2024
Haven Savings Bank employees volunteered at the Hoboken Shelter
We’re thrilled to share that three dedicated teams from Haven Savings Bank recently volunteered their time and talents at the Hoboken Shelter. Over the course of three separate dates, our amazing employees cooked and served lunches, providing not only nourishment but also warmth and care to those in need.
But that’s not all—our commitment to empowering individuals extended to hosting a financial literacy workshop at the shelter. Through this workshop, we provided essential money management skills to help individuals take control of their financial futures.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved for your unwavering support and generosity. Together, we’re making a positive impact in our community.
June 5, 2024
Haven Savings Bank names Lisa Franconeri new CEO and Paul Deponte new COO/Executive Vice President
Haven Savings Bank, which provides retail and commercial banking services to customers in Bergen, Union, Hudson, Morris, Passaic and Essex counties, has announced two top-level executive appointments. Senior Vice President & Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Officer Lisa Franconeri has been named the bank’s new President & Chief Executive Officer, while Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Paul Deponte has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer/Executive Vice President.
Longtime president John H. Wessling III will continue in his role as the bank’s Chairman of the Board. These new positions will take effect on January 1, 2025.
Ms. Franconeri began her tenure with Haven Savings Bank nearly four decades ago, steadily climbing the executive ranks. She has accrued a broad skillset that includes proficiency in lending, portfolio management, CRA practices, budgeting, marketing, and strategic planning.
CRA has been a particular focus for Ms. Franconeri. In her role as CRA Officer, she oversaw the bank’s Residential Lending Department and, in 2019, was credited with creating three distinct CRA programs to help low- to moderate-income borrowers become first-time homeowners. For the past four years, Ms. Franconeri also has been heavily involved in the bank’s marketing endeavors.
In 2022, Ms. Franconeri was awarded Business Leader of the Year by the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce. The distinction recognized her commitment to support women who aspire to take on a range of leadership roles at Haven Savings Bank.
Mr. Deponte joined Haven Savings Bank in 1989 and, like Ms. Franconeri, has enjoyed an upwardly mobile tenure. Before being named COO, he served as the bank’s CFO for more than seven years. During this time he has accrued a reputation for responsible, forward-thinking financial operations decisions. Mr. Deponte is a member of the nationwide Financial Managers Society, as well as the organization’s New York/New Jersey chapter.
“As I transition to Board Chairman, I could not be more confident in the leadership abilities of both my successor, Lisa, and the bank’s new COO, Paul,” said Haven’s outgoing president and CEO, John H. Wessling III. “Lisa and Paul are talented, experienced professionals who’ve served and excelled at Haven Savings Bank for most of their impressive careers. I congratulate them both, and thank the bank and our community for the opportunity to serve as president for the past 22 years.”
Ms. Franconeri earned a BS in Computer Science & Mathematics from Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City. Mr. Deponte has a BS in Public Accounting and Quantitative Methods from Fordham University, and a master’s degree in Management from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken.
Lisa Franconeri
Paul Deponte
May 7, 2024
Haven Savings Bank is hosting a Food Drive at all of our branch locations from May 1 – June 28th, 2024
Please help us collect food and other items for local families in need. Everything collected will be donated to the Father Michael Food Pantry and the Hoboken Shelter.
Pictured are Teller Supervisor, Ann Marie Dobbins and Theresa Torre, Mortgage Department Administrator.
Drop Boxes are available at all Haven Savings Bank locations.
May 2, 2024
Haven Savings Bank was thrilled to see so many of our employees participate in “Take Your Child To Work Day” this year
April 24, 2024
Haven Savings Bank was proud to participate in a workshop with Girl Scout Troop #98296 on April 24th
As part of Financial Literacy Month and our commitment to fostering financial empowerment, we focused on teaching the children the importance of saving money and how local banks can play a role in their lives. Our entire organization is dedicated to equipping young minds with the knowledge and skills needed to build a brighter financial future.
Pictured are Diana Pombo, AVP/Business Development, and Teresita Carballo, Westwood Branch Manager, with Troop #98296
April 15, 2024
The vital role of community banks as anchors of local prosperity
From supporting local organizations to providing critical PPP loans during COVID, community banks like Haven Savings Bank are integral to the fabric of American life.
In the sprawling landscape of modern finance, community banks stand as pillars of local economies, embodying a spirit of closeness and trust that larger institutions often struggle to replicate. These banks, typically serving specific regions or neighborhoods, play a crucial role in fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses, and nurturing personal connections within communities.
At the heart of their significance lies the intimate understanding of local needs and aspirations. Community banks like Haven Savings Bank are deeply ingrained in the fabric of their surroundings, enabling them to offer personalized services tailored to the unique requirements of residents and businesses. Unlike their larger counterparts, which may operate on a more standardized, impersonal scale, community banks thrive on building relationships with their customers, often spanning generations.
One of the most notable contributions of community banks is their support for small businesses, which form the backbone of local economies. These banks are more inclined to extend credit to small enterprises that may not meet the stringent criteria of larger financial institutions. By providing accessible financing options and expert guidance, community banks empower entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity within their communities.
Beyond their economic impact, community banks contribute to the social cohesion of neighborhoods and towns. As local institutions, they actively participate in community events, sponsor local initiatives, and reinvest profits into community development projects. This symbiotic relationship fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among residents, reinforcing the interconnectedness of economic and social well-being.
In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, community banks often serve as lifelines for affected communities. Their agility and responsiveness allow them to swiftly adapt to changing circumstances, offering assistance, loan restructuring, and other forms of support to help individuals and businesses weather the storm and rebuild in the aftermath.
During the COVID Crisis, according to Small Business Administration data, community banks made more than 65 percent of PPP loans and served nearly 60 percent of PPP recipients, which saved an estimated 33.7 million jobs. Haven Savings Bank was proud to do their part as well, providing 600 PPP Loans totaling $33 million over two years.
In essence, community banks represent more than just financial institutions; they embody the collective aspirations and resilience of the communities they serve. Through their personalized service, community engagement, and unwavering dedication to local development, institutions like Haven Savings Bank uphold the principles of mutual trust, solidarity, and prosperity, enriching the lives of individuals and businesses across every corner of society. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us recognize and celebrate the vital role of community banks as steadfast guardians of local prosperity.
March 4, 2024
Haven savings bank proudly supports the Sixth Annual International Women’s Day Business Summit
The Sixth Annual International Women’s Day Business Summit is here!
Friday, March 8, beginning at 11 am @ the Valley Regency in Clifton.
Haven Savings Bank is thrilled to serve as a “Her Story” Sponsor and support this year’s global theme, Inspire Inclusion! Join us and other fabulous empowering women on Friday, March 8 as we continue to forge a more inclusion world for women.
Don’t forget to visit our table during the Her Story Networking Lounge. We would love to meet you!
January 11, 2024
Haven Savings Bank participates in Annual Toy Drive
Haven Savings Bank dropped off holiday gifts collected during their toy drive to St. Paul’s Centenary United Methodist Church and Childcare Center.
Pictured left to right Ana Perez-Martinez, Livingston Branch Manager, Carmen Cabello, Hospitality Ministry, Diego Vega, Sexton and Trustees Member, Diana Pombo, AVP Business Development and Theresa Torre, Mortgage Department
Pictured left to right Ana Perez-Martinez, Livingston Branch Manager and Mary Helena, Auditor
November 7, 2023
Haven Savings Bank participates in “Protecting Yourself Against Financial Scams That Target Seniors” Lunch and Learn at the YWCA Northern New Jersey
Join Haven Savings Bank and YWCA NNJ for an important and engaging FREE lunch and learn presentation on the many financial scams that target seniors. Friday, Dec 1, 2023, 11:00AM – 2:00PM at the YWCA Northern NJ, 214 State Street, Room 103, Hackensack, NJ 07601.
November 7, 2023
Haven Savings Bank makes donation to the YWCA of Northern New Jersey
Executives from Haven Savings Bank recently presented a donation check to the leadership of the YWCA of Northern New Jersey. YWCA is the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organization in the world. For over a century, YWCA Northern New Jersey has been on the forefront of the fight against gender and racial discrimination. They work to build more just and inclusive communities through programs for women and girls, anti-racism training, and policy advocacy. They operate healing SPACE, Bergen County’s only Sexual Violence Resource Center. They also are one of the area’s largest providers of child care services and senior wellness programs.
In 2019, they changed their name from YWCA Bergen County to YWCA Northern New Jersey to reflect our expansion into Essex County, Hudson County, Morris County, and Passaic County, while deepening their mission in Bergen County where they will always be firmly rooted. For more information visit their website YWCA Northern New Jersey – Eliminating racism. Empowering Women. (ywcannj.org).
In the Photo left to right: Manuel Alers, VP/Business Development, Ana Perez-Martinez, Manager Haven’s Livingston Office, Helen Archontou, YWCA CEO, Diana Pombo, AVP/Business Development and Stefany Koslow, YWCA Sponsorships
September 20, 2023
Haven Savings Bank continues its community outreach with a donation of t-shirts for the Hoboken Clergy Coalition Shelter for the Homeless
From left to right are Diana Pombo, AVP/Business Relations, Josephine Infante-Meehan, Loans Processor, Roseanne Romano, Loans Processor and Alyson Landers, Development Manager for Hoboken Clergy Coalition Shelter for the Homeless
September 12, 2023
Haven Savings Bank delivers donations and check to the Center for Hope & Safety
Haven Savings Bank dropped off items collected during their collection drive and a check to the Center for Hope & Safety, a domestic violence non-profit agency providing shelter and services for adult and children victims and survivors.
Featured in photos from left to right: Diana Pombo, AVP/Business Development – Haven Bank, Elizabeth Campbell, Director of Development – Center for Hope & Safety, and Manuel Alers, VP/Business Development– Haven Bank.
August 2, 2023
Haven Savings Bank participates in collection drive for the Center for Hope & Safety
Join Haven Savings Bank in a COLLECTION DRIVE for the Center for Hope & Safety, a domestic violence non-profit agency providing shelter and services for adult and children victims and survivors, AUGUST 1-31, 2023 at any Haven branch location.
August 1, 2023
Haven Savings Bank helps support Spring Food Drive for the Fr. Michael Food Pantry in Hoboken
May 12, 2023
Westfield branch participates in the Spring Fling
Our Westfield office participated in the 28th annual Westfield Spring Fling on Sunday, May 7, 2023. The event was sponsored by the Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce. More than 300 vendors lined the streets of downtown Westfield for this springtime festival, which was chock full of all-ages fun. Our giveaways included balloon animals for the kids.
Participants:
Heidi Caponigro – Branch Manager
Josephine Caputo – Pemberton Asst. Branch Manager
Diana Pombo – AVP/Business Development
Manuel Alers – VP/Business Development
May 1, 2023
Your Donations Are Needed to Help Us Feed the Less Fortunate
From May 1 to June 28, every Haven branch will be accepting donations of food and supplies to help Hoboken’s Shelter and Father Mike’s Pantry as they assist our neighbors in need. Your kind donations will go a long way for a family or individual who may be facing a hard time. Please stop by your local Haven Saving Bank branch to learn more or to drop some items in one of our donation boxes.
Thank you for helping make a difference in our communities!
November 3, 2022
Theresa Torre wins the 2022 Rising Star Award!
Annually, the New Jersey Bankers Association receives and selects nominations for the Rising Star Award that recognizes Banking Professionals who demonstrate strong leadership skills within the Banking Industry and in the Community. Haven Savings Bank is proud to announce the winner for the 2022 Rising Star Award goes to, Theresa Torre, Mortgage Department Administrator! Theresa was honored alongside 20 other Banking Professionals on November 3, 2022, at Rising Star Awards Ceremony at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge in Warren NJ. Theresa exhibits exceptional commitment to our Banking Community as she continuously goes above and beyond to assist our Customers and Clients. She displays strong Leadership Qualities as in any event, takes initiative to assist, and train her Colleagues within the Residential Mortgage Department and other Departments as well. In addition to this, Theresa has returned to School at Hudson County Community College to pursue her Education and obtain her Associates Degree in Business Administration. Please join us in congratulating Theresa Torre on this very well deserving accomplishment!
October 28, 2022
Lisa Franconeri named Business Leader of the Year
Congratulations to Lisa Franconeri, Senior VP/CRA Officer at Haven Savings Bank for winning the Business Leader Award from the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce! We are proud of Lisa’s hard work, her focused leadership, and her ongoing support to other women in the workplace.
October 21, 2022
Heidi Caponigro, Westfield Office Manager, participated in a fundraising dinner and concert for Ukrainian humanitarian aid on October 21, 2022. The event was organized by the Rotary Club of Westfield, of which Heidi is a board member.
October 11, 2022
Diana Pombo, AVP/Business Development supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in Kearny, NJ on Saturday October 8th, 2022.
September 28, 2022
Join us at the Jersey City Mortgage Fair on October 5, 2022, from 4 pm – 8 pm.
The Jersey City Division of Community Development will be hosting a mortgage fair with local and national banks to provide additional support on their own in-house first-time homebuyer programs. The event will be held on October 5, 2022, 4 pm – 8 pm at 4 Jackson Square, inside the Holloway Board Room.
To register, please click on the image to the left and scan the QR code.
May 11, 2022
Congratulations to the Following Haven Saving Bank Employees Who Have Been Named to Boards of Directors in our Local Communities
David Morozoff
Madison Chamber of Commerce; Co-Chair Annual Taste of Madison
Cristina Cruz
Suburban Chamber of Commerce; Treasurer
Diana Pombo
Hudson County Chamber of Commerce; Co-Chair Women of Commerce Committee
November 8, 2021
Caresse O’Campo receives Rising Star Award
Haven Savings Bank is proud to announce that Caresse O’Campo, Assistant Vice President, Loan Servicing Manager, has been named as a recipient of the 2021 New Jersey Bankers Association Rising Star Award! Caresse will be honored at the Rising Star Awards ceremony on November 4, 2021, at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge in Warren, NJ.
Caresse joins only 20 other banking professionals across New Jersey to receive the honor which recognizes those banking professionals, under the age of 40, who make a significant impact on their respective financial institutions by demonstrating strong leadership and service skills.
Caresse began her career with Haven Savings Bank in February, 2014 as a Loan Servicing Representative. She went on to completing her Financial Services & Operations Certification in November 2019 and then received her General Financial Services Diploma in November 2020. It was then that she entered and won the contest for the Constantine G. Callas Progressive Educational & Work Ethic Memorial Scholarship. During this time, Caresse was working full time and going to college to receive her Associates of Science Degree in Business Administration. She achieved all this and is currently working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at Rider University and is expected to graduate in September 2022.
Please join me in congratulating Caresse O’Campo on this great accomplishment.
