opportunities to underserved communities,” said Jessica Elkan, executive director of the James Beard Public Market. “With their support, this catalytic project will not only transform our city but will create a ripple effect throughout our state and region, positioning Oregon as a global culinary capital. We are grateful to Bank of America for their leadership and partnership in making this vision a reality.” Bank of the Pacific Partners with Federal Home Loan Bank to Support Local Food Banks and Affordable Housing Initiatives Bank of the Pacific partnered with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB) to award eight nonprofits grants through the FHLB Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program includes $2,500 per entity from Bank of the Pacific and a $7,500 matching grant from the FHLB for a combined total of $10,000 each to selected local food banks and affordable housing agencies. This initiative aims to address the growing needs for food security and affordable housing as part of the bank’s ongoing efforts to support underserved populations. Through the FHLB Impact Grant program, Bank of the Pacific has been able to contribute a combined $40,000 to Coastal Harvest, Thurston County Food Bank, Alternatives to Hunger and Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need, ensuring that families in need can access essential food supplies during difficult times. Additionally, $40,000 has been donated to St. James Family Center, Homes First, Lydia Place and Skagit Friendship House to support efforts to provide safe and affordable housing to individuals and families facing housing instability. “We are honored to be able to work with FHLB on such a meaningful initiative. Our commitment to community is core to the mission of Bank of the Pacific, and these donations will help to provide relief to families who are facing Bank of America Marks 20 Years of Neighborhood Builders Program, Provides $400,000 in Grants Bank of America is awarding $400,000 in grants to two Portland-area nonprofits as part of its Neighborhood Builders® program, now in its 20th year of providing multiyear flexible funding and leadership training to high-impact nonprofits driving economic mobility in local communities. This year, the bank has named Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland and the James Beard Public Market as its 2024 Neighborhood Builders for their work to advance economic mobility. “Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland and the James Beard Public Market are forging pathways toward stronger, healthier and more economically stable futures for individuals, families and our entire region,” said Roger Hinshaw, president of Bank of America Oregon and SW Washington. “Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Neighborhood Builders program in Portland highlights Bank of America’s longstanding commitment to empowering nonprofits to scale their impact and drive meaningful change in our communities.” The Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland is dedicated to empowering young people to discover their potential. Through a new workforce development initiative, the nonprofit will be able to help seed transformative change with the integration of a matched savings account program designed to empower next generation leaders to break cycles of financial trauma by learning healthy money habits toward building multigenerational wealth. “Bank of America’s grant enables us to expand our career development programs, providing more teens with the tools and opportunities to build brighter futures,” said Terry Johnson, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland. “We are grateful for this support and look forward to growing our impact in the community.” Slated to open in 2025, the James Beard Public Market will be a daily, year-round hub in downtown Portland dedicated to honoring James Beard’s legacy and celebrating Oregon’s food and culture. By enhancing access to affordable nutrition, supporting sustainable agriculture, and providing economic opportunities for small businesses, the market will drive positive change in the community. Its inclusive food space, featuring a teaching kitchen, farm stands, and more, making it a market for all. “The James Beard Public Market is deeply honored to be selected as a Bank of America Neighborhood Builder. This prestigious recognition underscores Bank of America’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing neighborhoods, supporting emerging entrepreneurs, and providing economic 44 Winter 2025 • BANKING MATTERS
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Nzc3ODM=