Big Sky Times

Last week, the North Valley Food Bank received a $25,000 grant from the First Interstate Bank, according to NBC Montana.

The goal of the contribution to the food bank was to strengthen food security over the entirety of northwest Montana and to foster communities that are both well-nourished and well-connected. It is a component of the bank's "Believe in Local" program, which gives grants of $25,000 each to 40 different charitable organizations located within the bank's footprint. The employees of First Interstate Bank suggested each charitable organization in each appropriate region.

This donation is going to be put toward the purchase of a brand-new refrigerated vehicle for the food bank.

In 2022, First Interstate Bank started a campaign called "Believe in Local" to commemorate the bank's longstanding dedication to the areas that it serves. The grants are meant to demonstrate the bank's commitment to the community. The North Valley Food Bank was picked from a pool of over 500 applicants because it aligns with the charitable values of the First Interstate Bank.

In addition to initiatives such as "Believe in Local," First Interstate contributes 2% of its yearly pretax revenues in the form of grants and gifts to the areas in which it operates. These grants contribute to the advancement of workforce development, the increase in opportunities for early childhood education, the mitigation of poverty and to the support of not-for-profit organizations.