Empowering Local Communities with Generous Support
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, alongside Origin Bank and Century Next Bank, has awarded a significant grant of $60,000 to the Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation, affectionately known as Zion CDC. This grant aims to aid families grappling with chronic poverty by covering vital expenses such as rent, utilities, and food assistance.
Celebrating the Impact of Community Contributions
The announcement of this grant was met with enthusiasm during a notable check presentation event. The funding will not only assist families but will also support operational costs and educational programs essential for job training and further advancement.
The Rev. Maurice White, the pastor of Zion Traveler Baptist Church, expressed his gratitude, stating, "This grant will help us in so many ways. Being able to provide community members much-needed assistance with rent, utilities and food is an absolute Godsend. These funds helped us reach underserved parts of the parish." His words capture the essence of what this funding represents for the community.
A Mission to Achieve Social Justice
Zion CDC is dedicated to fostering social and economic justice across the greater Lincoln Parish community. Their mission resonates deeply as they strive to alleviate poverty and provide tangible expressions of faith through their dedicated work.
Mark Taylor, executive vice president and CFO at Century Next Bank, highlighted the profound impact such grants can have on nonprofits struggling during challenging times. "The impact of funds on nonprofits is immeasurable," he said, underscoring how essential this financial assistance is for sustaining community initiatives.
Partnership Grant Program: A Vital Resource
The Partnership Grant Program (PGP) through FHLB Dallas allows its member institutions to contribute funding ranging from $500 to $5,000 to nonprofits. Each contribution is then matched at a 5:1 ratio, resulting in a potential total of $25,000 to each organization per bank. This unique funding model strengthens the ties between community-focused organizations and FHLB Dallas members.
Shelia Grayson, Vice President at Origin Bank, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: "We are so pleased to be a part of FHLB Dallas’ Partnership Grant Program. Seeing the results of grants to community-focused organizations is truly rewarding. We love seeing communities thrive.” This sentiment reflects the broader objective of fostering communal growth through collaboration.
A Continuation of Support
The PGP grants are part of a larger initiative where FHLB Dallas and participating member institutions have allocated $1.2 million in grants in 2024. The consistent support demonstrates a commitment to uplifting community organizations like Zion CDC and ensuring they have the resources they need to continue their vital work.
Building Stronger Community Ties
Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, recognized the ongoing efforts of Century Next and Origin Bank. "Both Century Next and Origin Bank continue to be strong partners in community outreach," he noted, reinforcing the significance of collaboration in achieving impactful results.
About Century Next Bank
Century Next Bank, founded in 1905, stands as a federally chartered stock savings bank with a proud legacy of serving the Ruston, Louisiana community and its neighboring areas. Its commitment to community development has grown, expanding its footprint into additional parishes and counties, reflecting a steadfast dedication to helping those in need.
About Origin Bank
Origin Bank emphasizes personalized, relationship-driven banking. With more than 60 banking centers across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, Origin is deeply invested in enriching the lives of individuals and communities, offering a comprehensive range of financial services tailored to the unique needs of each client.
About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of the 11 district banks within the FHLBank System, established in 1932 by Congress. With an impressive total of $129.4 billion in assets as of September 2024, FHLB Dallas operates as a member-owned cooperative, providing competitively priced loans and other financial products to its members, thereby fostering housing and community development across multiple states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the $60,000 grant awarded to Zion CDC?
The grant will assist families facing chronic poverty by covering necessary expenses such as rent, utilities, and food assistance.
Who are the leading institutions that provided the grant?
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, Origin Bank, and Century Next Bank collaborated to award the grant.
What programs will the grant fund?
The funding will support operational costs, educational initiatives, and job training programs at Zion CDC.
How does the Partnership Grant Program work?
The program allows banks to contribute funds to nonprofits, which FHLB Dallas matches at a 5:1 ratio, significantly boosting available resources.
What is the mission of Zion CDC?
Zion CDC aims to enhance social and economic justice and alleviate poverty in the Lincoln Parish community, reflecting its faith-driven initiatives.
