Home Loan Bank of Des Moines honors non-profit

Northwestern Financial Review, Dec 15-Dec 31, 2002

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines has honored a home in St. Louis for homeless, pregnant women.

Since 1988, more than 350 mothers and their children have found a place to call home at The Haven of Grace in St. Louis. The small, residential facility shelters homeless, pregnant women age 16 to 24. Residents, whose stays average six months, are provided with a secure, family-oriented environment. Their needs for healthcare, parenting skills, education and much more are met through The Haven's residential program.

The center represents a long-term commitment to getting people off the streets. "Almost 37 percent of homeless families are expected to be homeless a second time. Our AfterCare Program is critical to the long-term success of our former residents," said Diane Berry, executive director of The Haven of Grace. "The Program addresses educational, employment and housing goals for up to 10 years and helps young mothers break the cycle of homelessness and remain self-sufficient."

The Home Loan Bank honored The Haven of Grace for its contribution to the city of St. Louis during a special award ceremony in late October. The Haven received the Home Loan Bank Award for Excellence and a check for $10,000 plus a $5,000 scholarship for a minority undergraduate or graduate student intern. The FHLB also recognized Heartland Bank of St. Louis for its active role in the project.

Semi-annually, the Federal Home Loan Bank awards Affordable Housing Program grants to its community bank members. Through its partnership with Heartland Bank, The Haven of Grace received $200,000 in AHP grants for a new, 10-unit supportive housing facility. The Haven's current building no longer serves the needs of the program due to its small size and insufficient space for mothers and their children.

Recipients of the Award for Excellence have demonstrated excellence in affordable housing and have visible community leaders. Award winners have been selected in each of the Des Moines Bank's five district states of Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota.