SunTrust Banks, Inc. announced today that Operation HOPE financial counselors will be operational in select branch locations in Atlanta, Memphisand Washington, D.C. this month.  The HOPE Inside program is part of SunTrust's ongoing efforts to light the way to financial well-being for clients and communities.  The announcement was made by SunTrust Chairman and CEO William H. Rogers, Jr. at the HOPE Global Financial Dignity Summit inAtlanta, Ga.

"We believe that when you build your communities, you build your bank," said Rogers. "Further, we believe the banking industry has an opportunity and an obligation to help the underbanked. HOPE Inside is an important step toward even greater integration of traditional banking services with programs targeted at underserved populations."

SunTrust previously committed a $1 million cash and in-kind contribution to HOPE Inside, which provides a range of credit counseling services at select branches.  Since that commitment, SunTrust added two locations in Washington, D.C.  Programs offered through HOPE Inside cover topics such as repairing one's credit and financial planning for homeownership.  In addition, SunTrust's Washington, D.C. HOPE Inside locations will focus on small business development for entrepreneurs.

"SunTrust has been a trusted partner in the cause of financial literacy," said Operation HOPE Founder, Chairman and CEO John Hope Bryant.  "HOPE Inside is the crucial next step because it plants financial counselors in communities that need to hear a message of financial dignity and hope.  We applaud SunTrust for building stronger communities by giving a hand up through financial education for the unbanked or underserved."