ATLANTA – June 4, 2015 – Forests across the country are receiving some much-needed help, thanks to a bank that plants a tree each time a customer funds a loan. LightStream, an online lending division of SunTrust Bank (NYSE: STI), is being recognized for having helped reforest and conserve 250 acres of U.S. wilderness areas through its partnership with American Forests.

“We’re pleased to announce this milestone as we commemorate National Great Outdoors Month,” said Kristin Shuff, LightStream spokesperson.

Established by the federal government and celebrated in every state, June has been designated to honor America’s “long legacy of environmental stewardship and resolve to preserve clean and healthy outdoor spaces for generations to come.”

“LightStream’s support this year contributes to vital tree restoration projects across the United States,” said Lea Sloan, vice president of communications at American Forests. “From Florida to Montana, we’ve revitalized fire- and drought-damaged national park and wilderness areas. As one of our top 20 donors, LightStream has made a valuable contribution to these critical efforts.”

Funded American Forests projects include:

  • Warm Fire Restoration (AZ)
  • West Fork Complex (CO)
  • Tyndall Air Force Base (FL)
  • McGuire Fire (ID)
  • Up Top Fires 1 & 2 (MT)
  • Restoration & Climate Adaptation (NM)
  • The Deschutes(OR)
  • Spruce Grouse (WI)
  • Shoshone National Forest (WY)

As the first national conservation organization in the U.S., American Forests celebrates its 140th anniversary this year and is on track to plant its 50 millionth tree.

“We’re thrilled to have been able to finance a wide array of needs that are important to our customers. Each tree in those 250 acres represents a customer we’ve helped,” said Shuff. “As an online lending company, conservation matters to our team. We live it every day through our virtually paperless loan process. It’s a privilege to celebrate the help we provide to our customers in such a lasting way, supporting environmental restoration through the outstanding efforts of American Forests.”

 

About American Forests

 

American Forests’ mission is to restore threatened forest ecosystems and inspire people to value and protect urban and wildland forests.  Since 1990, American Forests has completed work on more than 1000 projects throughout the U.S. and in 45 countries.  Learn more at www.americanforests.org.

 

About LightStream, an online lending division of SunTrust Bank

 

LightStream provides consumer loans for people with good credit.  Its proprietary technology delivers a virtually paperless loan application, underwriting, funding and servicing experience.  Offering competitive fixed rates, flexible terms and an outstanding customer experience, LightStream provides financing for practically any purpose. Customers can borrow up to $100,000, with no fees. LightStream’s loans have fixed rates ranging from 1.99%-9.99%* APR with AutoPay (as of 06/01/2015) as well as a fast, simple application and approval process. And, LightStream will continue to plant a tree with every funded loan. For more information, visit lightstream.com.

 

SunTrust Banks, Inc., headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest banking organizations, serving a broad range of consumer, commercial, corporate and institutional clients. As of March 31, 2015, SunTrust had total assets of $189.9 billion and total deposits of $144.4 billion. Through its flagship subsidiary, SunTrust Bank, the company operates an extensive branch and ATM network throughout the high-growth Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states and a full array of technology-based, 24-hour delivery channels. The company also serves clients in selected markets nationally. Its primary businesses include deposit, credit, trust and investment services. Through various subsidiaries the company provides mortgage banking, insurance, brokerage, investment management, equipment leasing and investment banking services. SunTrust’s Internet address is suntrust.com.

 

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*APR may differ based on loan purpose, amount, term, and your credit profile. Rates are quoted with AutoPay repayment option. Rates under the invoicing option are 0.50% higher. If your application is approved, your credit profile will determine whether your loan will be unsecured or secured. Subject to credit approval. Conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice.