Bank of Belen gets Habitat funding

Belen

The Bank of Belen has obtained $180,000 in Affordable Housing Grant funds through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas for the Habitat for Humanity of Valencia County’s 50 in five drive.

“The Bank of Belen is enthusiastic about our ability to assist Habitat for Humanity of Valencia County (HHVC),” said Ken Carson, president of Bank of Belen. “This is one of the largest grants awarded, which demonstrates the large need for affordable housing in Valencia County.”

The funds will enable the construction of more than 50 homes during 2002. The AHP program is funded through set-asides from the banking industry to assist those in need in communities such as Valencia County, providing affordable housing opportunities.

The grant is extremely competitive, according to the bank officials, with more than 125 applications requesting funds and only 40 receiving funding. The HHVC application scored ninth due to the programs excellent performance and the needs of Valencia County residents.

“The Bank of Belen has a long history of supporting community organizations, especially Habitat for Humanity,” said Kevin Cronk, HHVC executive director.