The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), in partnership with Origin Bank and Century Next Bank, recently awarded a $60,000 grant to the Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation (Zion CDC) through the Partnership Grant Program (PGP). This funding is intended to support the nonprofit’s initiatives aimed at assisting families who are dealing with chronic poverty. Specifically, the grant will help cover critical expenses such as rental assistance, utility bills, and food support, as well as offset operational and administrative costs associated with educational programs and job training services.
The grant was celebrated with a check presentation event last week, where community members and bank representatives gathered to acknowledge the significant contribution. The funds are expected to make a profound impact on Zion CDC’s ability to extend essential services to those in need within the community.
A Lifeline for the Underserved
Rev. Maurice White, the pastor of Zion Traveler Baptist Church and leader of Zion CDC, expressed profound gratitude for the grant, emphasizing the critical role the funds will play in alleviating the challenges faced by families living in persistent poverty. “This grant will help us in so many ways,” Rev. White said. “Being able to provide community members with much-needed assistance with rent, utilities, and food is an absolute Godsend. These funds have helped us reach underserved parts of the parish.”
Zion CDC is committed to enhancing social and economic justice, demonstrating compassion, and alleviating poverty in the greater Lincoln Parish (Louisiana) community. The organization operates as an extension of the faith-based values held by Zion Traveler Baptist Church and seeks to uplift vulnerable populations through practical, community-focused initiatives.
The Partnership Grant Program, which has been instrumental in supporting nonprofit organizations like Zion CDC, serves as a platform for fostering collaboration between FHLB Dallas, its member institutions, and local nonprofits. By providing financial assistance to these organizations, the program strengthens the ability of nonprofits to make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Strengthening Communities through Partnerships
The PGP is designed to offer grants that promote community development and strengthen the relationships between financial institutions and local nonprofits. Through this program, FHLB Dallas matches contributions from its member banks on a 5:1 ratio. For instance, if a member bank contributes $5,000, FHLB Dallas matches that amount with an additional $25,000, bringing the total grant to $30,000. This collaborative approach enhances the overall effectiveness of the grants and ensures that nonprofit organizations receive the necessary financial resources to meet their goals.
The Zion CDC grant is one example of how these collaborative partnerships have the potential to transform communities. In this case, the grant will not only address immediate needs like rent and utility assistance but will also contribute to long-term improvements in the community by funding programs that promote education, skill development, and job readiness. These initiatives are designed to empower individuals and families to break the cycle of poverty and achieve financial stability.
The Vital Role of Nonprofits in Addressing Community Needs
Mark Taylor, the executive vice president and CFO at Century Next Bank, acknowledged the invaluable contribution that nonprofits like Zion CDC make in their communities, especially in times of economic difficulty. “The impact of funds on nonprofits is immeasurable,” Taylor said. “So many nonprofits are struggling, and being able to provide those funds is incredibly meaningful. We are proud to be a part of this effort and support the important work being done by Zion CDC.”
Nonprofits are often the first line of defense for individuals and families in crisis, and they provide essential services that can make a significant difference in people’s lives. However, many of these organizations face ongoing financial challenges, making grants like the one awarded to Zion CDC even more crucial. With the support of financial institutions like FHLB Dallas, Origin Bank, and Century Next Bank, nonprofits can continue to provide vital assistance and services to underserved populations.
Commitment to Community Development
The Partnership Grant Program is one of several initiatives that FHLB Dallas and its members support to promote community development across the region. By leveraging their financial resources and expertise, these institutions are able to assist nonprofits in addressing a wide range of social and economic challenges. In addition to providing direct financial support, FHLB Dallas also facilitates opportunities for collaboration and networking among nonprofits, banks, and other community stakeholders.
Shelia Grayson, vice president at Origin Bank and the bank’s CRA and Community Development officer, expressed her pride in being part of the program and its impact on local communities. “We are so pleased to be a part of FHLB Dallas’ Partnership Grant Program,” Grayson said. “Seeing the results of grants to community-focused organizations is truly rewarding. We love seeing communities thrive.”
Origin Bank has long been committed to supporting local communities, and its participation in the PGP aligns with the bank’s broader mission to foster positive change and economic development. By investing in organizations like Zion CDC, Origin Bank is helping to create stronger, more resilient communities in Louisiana and beyond.
The Power of Collective Giving
The PGP grants are part of a larger initiative by FHLB Dallas and its participating members, with a total of $1.2 million in grants being awarded to nonprofits in 2024. This significant sum demonstrates the collective power of banks, financial institutions, and nonprofits working together to address the needs of local communities. Through these partnerships, FHLB Dallas and its members are able to provide much-needed support to organizations that are making a difference in the lives of individuals and families facing adversity.
Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, highlighted the importance of these ongoing partnerships in advancing community outreach efforts. “Both Century Next and Origin Bank continue to be strong partners in community outreach,” Hettrick said. “Their commitment to supporting nonprofits is helping to drive positive change and improve the quality of life for countless individuals in our communities.”
Looking ahead, FHLB Dallas and its member banks remain dedicated to supporting nonprofits through the Partnership Grant Program and other initiatives. By working together, these organizations are helping to build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to face the challenges of the future.
The $60,000 grant awarded to Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation is just one example of how strategic partnerships between financial institutions and nonprofits can create meaningful change. Through the support of FHLB Dallas, Origin Bank, and Century Next Bank, Zion CDC will be able to continue its mission of providing essential services to families in need, while also expanding its reach and impact in the community.
As the Partnership Grant Program continues to support organizations like Zion CDC, it serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and collective action in addressing social and economic disparities. With the continued support of financial institutions and community-focused nonprofits, we can work together to build a future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
Read more: FHLB Dallas, Origin Bank, and Century Next Bank Award $60K to Zion CDC
