First Interstate Bank’s Believe in Local Campaign Donates $25,000 to Support Flathead Food Bank’s Mission

The Flathead Food Bank just received a generous donation of $25,000 from First Interstate Bank and the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation. This gift is part of their fourth annual Believe in Local grant campaign.

Hunger is on the rise in the Flathead Valley, impacting children, seniors, and everyone in between. It’s not just about missing meals; hunger affects health and well-being. In 2020, the Flathead Food Bank stepped up, distributing over 3.4 million pounds of food—twice what they provided the year before. This incredible support has been vital for many in the community.

Chris Sidmore, the executive director of the Flathead Food Bank, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that the community’s needs have never been higher. This sentiment reflects a wider concern: according to a recent Feeding America report, food insecurity affects 1 in 8 Americans, highlighting the urgent need for support.

The nomination for this donation came from several First Interstate employees in Kalispell, including Market President Brenden Craig. He emphasized that the Believe in Local campaign showcases the bank’s dedication to making a positive difference. The initiative began in 2022 and awards $1 million annually, handing out $25,000 to 40 deserving nonprofit organizations across 14 states.

First Interstate Bank’s commitment doesn’t stop with this grant. They donate around 2% of their pre-tax earnings to local communities. This funding supports workforce development, early childhood education, and efforts to combat poverty—issues that are crucial for uplifting communities.

As social media trends show growing awareness of food insecurity, initiatives like these remind us of the power of local support and philanthropy. For more on First Interstate’s community efforts, check out their website: [Believe in Local](https://www.firstinterstate.com/believeinlocal).

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