ICBA provides $180K relief fund for hurricane-affected communities

The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) Foundation Disaster Relief Program has announced the collection and distribution of $180,000 to support community banks and their employees impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton. This amount includes a $25,000 matching contribution from ICBA.

Peter Gwaltney, President and CEO of the North Carolina Bankers Association, expressed gratitude for the support received: “Natural disasters can wreak havoc on local communities, and we are incredibly thankful for the tremendous support for the community bankers and their families who were affected by Hurricane Helene.” He emphasized how contributions reflect the values of community banking.

Teresa Taylor, Executive Director of Independent Banks of South Carolina, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “This partnership with the ICBA Foundation gives our community bank colleagues and the communities they serve renewed hope in the face of destruction, and we are immensely grateful for the generosity pouring in from all corners.”

ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey stated: “ICBA, our member banks, and our partner organizations across the country are committed to helping those affected by last year’s devastating natural disasters. Community banks play a vital role in supporting the areas they serve, especially during times of crisis. We are proud to contribute to the efforts of friends and neighbors, helping Main Streets and neighborhoods restore what has been lost.”

Financial assistance was provided to several organizations across different states:

In Florida: Feeding Tampa Bay, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Inc., Sunrise of Pasco County Inc., Taylor County Chamber of Commerce.

In Georgia: Remarkable Foundation, The Coffee County Food Bank, Golden Harvest Food Bank.

In North Carolina: The NCBA Hurricane Relief Fund.

In South Carolina: The South Carolina Baptist Convention’s Disaster Relief Fund.

In Virginia: The Smyth Country Community Foundation, Damascus Strong Direct Fund.

The ICBA Foundation’s Hurricane Relief Fund called for tax-deductible donations to assist community bankers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Contributions came from individuals, organizations, and community banks. Notably, none of these funds were used for administrative costs.

The ICBA is dedicated to fostering an environment where community banks can thrive through advocacy, education, and innovation. It supports local economies by channeling deposits into communities to create jobs and foster prosperity.

The ICBA Foundation Disaster Relief Program aids state associations affiliated with ICBA in fundraising efforts when presidentially or state governor-declared disasters occur. Collected funds directly assist affected community banks without covering administrative expenses.