TAMPA, Fla., November 3, 2003/PRNewswire/ - Amscot Financial recently made a monetary commitment to The Florida Aquarium's Sponsored Admission Program, which provides at-risk, economically disadvantaged children from low-income neighborhoods throughout the Tampa Bay Area with free admission to the aquarium.

Among those who will benefit from Amscot's donation are children from both high-poverty Title I schools and numerous not-for-profit community groups and agencies.

"At Amscot Financial," explains Executive Vice President Ian A. Mackechnie, "we feel we have a responsibility to support worthy causes, like the Sponsored Admission Program, that help improve the lives of children. It is a long-standing tradition at Amscot that we plan on continuing - and growing upon - as our company expands throughout Florida."

Sharon Barton, The Florida Aquarium's corporate gifts manager, says "we are honored to have a charitable company like Amscot Financial support these underserved children who would otherwise not have the opportunity to participate in these types of enrichment experiences.

"With more than 10,000 children who stand to benefit from the program this year, Amscot has made a wonderful gesture toward these kids - and the Tampa Bay
Community," she adds.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., Amscot Financial is a leading provider of income tax preparation and electronic filing services, refund anticipation loans, check cashing services, cash advance services, money transfer services, and money orders through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Amscot International Money Order Company. Amscot Financial currently operates more than 50 tax preparation offices and 50 retail financial service centers throughout Florida, employing more than 1,500 people, and transacting in excess of $1.5 billion annually. For additional information, please visit the company's Web site at www.amscotfinancial.com.