News

TWIN FALLS, Idaho – In its final round of funding for the year, the First Federal Foundation announced it will be awarding a total of $52,437 in grants to 17 different Idaho non-profits. Funds received by each recipient will be utilized for various capital projects and important operational needs. Over 60 organizations applied for grant consideration during the two-month submittal period, the most in the history of the Foundation. 2024 also marked the 21^st year for the Foundation, which has now distributed more than $1.5 million to over 200 different non-profits.

“We are proud to contribute to the meaningful work of all grant award recipients,” said Angela Wells, Customer and Community Engagement Manager for First Federal Bank. “The non-profits chosen are dedicated to enhancing and uplifting communities through impactful projects. Together, we can help empower individuals, strengthen neighborhoods, and create lasting change.”

The 9-person First Federal Foundation board reviewed each grant application, evaluating them for potential community impact and quality of life enhancement. Additionally, for an application to be considered, the non-profit must be based in Idaho and typically be in one of the Foundation’s areas of focus – educational, civic, health, human services, social, and cultural organizations.

Martin Flaherty, President of Astegos.org, shared his gratitude when he learned of their grant award, “We rely on the generosity of donors, like the First Federal Foundation, to further our mission of impacting communities through housing, outreach, and community warehouse programs. This grant is a significant investment in our future, providing crucial equipment that will help us extend our reach and support more children across Idaho.”

Ken Robinette, CEO of South Central Community Action Partnership, stated, "SCCAP is honored to have been selected for a grant from the First Federal Foundation. This funding will allow us to purchase construction equipment that will be used as part of our Self Help Housing program, saving families hundreds of dollars every project.”

2024 Winter Grant Recipients are listed below, including a brief description of their project/initiative.

The next First Federal Foundation grant cycle will occur in Spring 2025, with the application period beginning in May. Additional details on the upcoming grant process will be communicated in the near future. For more information about the Foundation, please visit  www.bankfirstfed.com/foundation.