May 1, 2020
McMinnville, OR – First Federal announced the launch of the COVID-19 Nonprofit Support Grant, earlier this month in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The goal of this program was to provide funds for the hard-hit nonprofits in the Yamhill County service area. Local nonprofits could apply for up to $3,000 for one-time assistance.
Over 40 applications were submitted during the submission period, indicating a true need in the local community. A total of 9 grants were awarded to ABC Daycare, Carlton’s Walk in the Park Foundation, Isaiah 58 Food Pantry, Juliette’s House Child Abuse Intervention Center, McMinnville Free Clinic, Newberg Area Habitat for Humanity, St. Vincent de Paul, Willamina Civic Club, and With Courage. Each grant awarded was worth $3,000.
The promotion of the grant program struck a chord with one community member in particular who contacted his local First Federal branch with a desire to expand the community giving. Robert Laughlin owns two local businesses based in Carlton, Laughlin Cartrell, Inc. and Laughlin Trucking, which generously support the community year-round. On behalf of his businesses, Robert wanted to partner with First Federal to provide additional funds to help 5 more community organizations in Yamhill County. His generous donations supported the American Legion Carlton Memorial Post 173, Homeward Bound Pets, Newberg Animal Shelter Friends, Provoking Hope, and Your Community Mediators.
“We are inordinately thankful to have customers like Robert who are receptive to the needs of our community. Without his partnership we would not have been able to pursue this level of support,” said Jim Schlotfeldt, President and CEO.
When First Federal was founded in 1922, they offered a new banking choice for Yamhill County residents. In the years since, they have grown in size, products, and services, but their commitment to their customers and community has remained the same. They aim to provide superior banking products and services, and to promote home ownership and business vitality by reinvesting in Yamhill County.
