Doddsville, Mississippi, native Stella Groves has endured many summers. But this one would have been unbearable due to a broken air conditioning system. However, more than $8,000 in the form of a Special Needs Assistance Program (SNAP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) cooled her fears of facing the sweltering southern heat without AC.

“I’m having problems with the water, floor and windows. But thanks to the SNAP grant, I have one less problem to deal with; it can get pretty hot out here and I’m relieved to have a new air conditioning unit,” Ms. Groves, 71, said.

Like all FHLB Dallas programs, the funds were disbursed through a member institution. In this case, Planters Bank based in Indianola, Mississippi.

“Ensuring our community members can stay cool and comfortable during the summers goes beyond just comfort — it’s about dignity and well-being,” said Planters Bank CRA Officer Paula Gagnier. “We are honored to play a part in ensuring that Ms. Groves and other senior residents from our community can live safely and comfortably in their homes.”

Member institutions like Planters Bank can use FHLB Dallas’ SNAP funds to provide grants for the repair and rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing of eligible, special-needs individuals. FHLB Dallas set aside $2 million of its 2024 Affordable Housing Program funds for SNAP.

“We’re glad to have partners across our communities who ensure that no one slips through the cracks, especially seniors,” said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas.

Since SNAP’s inception in 2009, nearly $26 million in funding has been awarded across FHLB Dallas’ five-state District.

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Visit fhlb.com/SNAP to learn more.