Glacier Bank’s partnership supports NW Montana

Glacier Bank, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), recently announced it has awarded a total of $120,036 in grant funding to 12 nonprofit organizations in Northwest Montana through the Member Impact Fund.

This matching grant program is designed to amplify the community engagement of FHLB Des Moines member institutions and support local housing, economic development, education and essential community services.

In Montana, 287 applications received funding through partnerships with 41 member institutions. FHLB Des Moines matched more than $2.40 for every $1 contributed by a member institution, resulting in $1.6 million from members and $4 million in total funding awarded across the state.

“At Glacier Bank, we are proud to invest in organizations that are making a meaningful difference across the communities we serve,” said Market President, Mike Smith. “Through the Member Impact Fund, we’re able to expand our support and help these incredible partners continue their vital work in housing, education, public safety, and community development.”

Through this funding, Glacier Bank is supporting the following organizations:

- Kootenai Heritage Council Memorial Center (FEMA Emergency Command)

- Kootenai Valley Rangers

- Logan Health Foundation

- Flathead Valley Community College Foundation

- Kalispell Education Foundation

- Flathead Industries

- Whitefish Backpack Assistance Program

- Columbia Falls Kids Foundation

- Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork

- Polson Police Foundation

- Lake County Community Housing

- Homeword

Glacier Bank has longstanding relationships with many of these organizations, working together to strengthen local communities through initiatives such as affordable housing development, workforce support, youth programs, food security, healthcare access, and public safety.

The grant funding will help expand critical programs and services, including housing assistance, educational opportunities, emergency response capabilities, and community-based support systems for residents throughout the region.

“This last home stretch of our capital campaign to Preserve River View Place has been the most daunting, and we are ecstatic at being a grant recipient of FHLB,” said Sterling Duval Bax, Executive Director for Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork. 

“Working with FHLB and Glacier Bank was inspirational and played a large role in our efforts to close the gap. We are thankful for the opportunity and partnership to preserve this space in Bigfork for the community."

“The Member Impact Fund is designed to help our members champion the organizations that make a real difference in their communities,” said Kris Williams, president and chief executive officer of FHLB Des Moines. “By partnering with our members, we’re able to multiply resources and support their vital work as they continue to strengthen opportunities for the people they serve.”

Since its launch in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has provided more than $86 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines, generating over $119 million in combined support for affordable housing and community development. 

Notably, every eligible application submitted to the program has received funding, reflecting the Bank’s strong commitment to partnership and impact.