The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) has granted $75,000 to Project Build a Future (PBAF) through its member, First Federal Bank of Louisiana, as part of its Heirs’ Property Program. This initiative aims to assist locals in resolving heirship or title issues on their properties and facilitating the establishment of wills.
In 2023, FHLB Dallas allocated a total of $905,200, expected to aid over 900 residents in resolving approximately 442 titles associated with heirs’ property.
Heirs’ property, inherited without clear legal documentation, poses challenges as successive generations inherit shares, complicating title ownership over time. PBAF, based in Lake Charles, Louisiana, will direct $50,000 to the Southwest LA Law Center (SWLLC) to provide direct client assistance. The remaining funds will be utilized for creating educational materials for public information sessions.
“Unclear property titles are a significant issue in our community, particularly among the low- to moderate-income population,” stated Charla Blake, executive director of PBAF. “By addressing title issues, this program empowers homeowners to pass on their assets as generational wealth.”
Frequent hurricanes in Louisiana have exacerbated property damage, hindering rebuilding efforts and forcing residents to relocate. PBAF and SWLLC aim to provide legal counsel and assistance in securing property titles to facilitate residents’ return to their communities.
First Federal Bank of Louisiana, a long-standing partner of PBAF, views this collaboration as integral to community development. Melissa Dickson, CRA Manager at First Federal Bank of Louisiana, emphasized the bank’s commitment to fostering homeownership and financial stability in the community.
The Heirs’ Property Program, launched in 2023 with an allocation of up to $75,000 per organization, aims to address property ownership challenges. In 2024, FHLB Dallas has increased the allocation to $2 million, enabling organizations to receive up to $100,000 each.
“The Heirs’ Property Program reflects our commitment to addressing community needs and empowering nonprofits and residents,” remarked Ms. Blake. “This initiative will be instrumental in supporting individuals and communities facing property ownership challenges.”
The next application window for the Heirs’ Property Program opens on September 3 and closes on September 30, targeting organizations within FHLB Dallas’ five-state District. All funds are distributed through FHLB Dallas member institutions.
Greg Hettrick, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, highlighted the program’s origin in response to community feedback and praised members like First Federal Bank of Louisiana for their proactive community engagement
