NEW MADRID, Mo. — A partnership between the Bank of New Madrid and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines or Bank) will benefit two area organizations.
The New Madrid County Family Resource Center and Heart2Help both received a $10,000 grant through the Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program is designed to amplify the community engagement of FHLB Des Moines member institutions that support local housing, business and economic needs.
Bank of New Madrid is a proud supporter of New Madrid County Family Resource Center since 2000, officials said in a news release. Together, they are dedicated to improving the community through affordable housing and development initiatives.
The Center offers opportunities through youth and parenting programs, employment assistance and community engagement. The Center also provides support to meet today's many life challenges including a food pantry, parenting education, emergency financial assistance, job readiness training, job search assistance, career assessment, youth mentoring, school readiness and community engagement activities.
The New Madrid County Family Resource Center will use its donation for temporary assistance from time to time to meet their rent and/or utility demands.
"With so many individuals and families facing housing instability in our communities, this support will provide critical assistance to those in need,” said Tonya Carruth, executive director of New Madrid County Family Resource Center. "The threat of eviction can create significant challenges for families, impacting financial security, physical and mental well-being, educational outcomes and overall stability. We are proud to be part of an effort that helps keep families safely housed, reduces the risk of homelessness, and promotes stronger, more resilient communities.”
Carruth praised the Bank of New Madrid for its long-standing support of the community and the people.
“This partnership fits naturally and we appreciate the caring and devotion to helping all strive in life,” she said.
“We love the heart of LaKishea Braxton and the mission of Heart2Help,” said Marty McReynolds, president of the Bank of New Madrid. “We are truly grateful for this partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines that will help them achieve their goal of supporting women in recovery”
Heart2Help will use this award toward facility upgrades which will increase capacity and improve privacy and dignity for residents.
Executive Director, LaKishea Braxton expressed gratitude to Bank of New Madrid for the grant noting that it will allow the organization to better serve women in need of safe and structured recovery housing.
“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.”
In Missouri, 956 applications received funding through partnerships with 174 member institutions. FHLB Des Moines matched $3 for every $1 contributed by a member institution, resulting in $6.46 million from members and $19.36 million awarded by FHLB Des Moines.
Since its launch in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has provided more than $106 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines, generating over $144 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.