Catholic Charities receives grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and Stearns Bank

July 7, 2025

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud receives $10,000 grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and Stearns Bank through the Member Impact Fund


Grant program supports affordable housing and community development

We are thrilled to announce Catholic Charities has received a $10,000 grant from Stearns Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) through the Member Impact Fund. This grant is part of $20 million in funding awarded by FHLB Des Moines through a matching grant program to support affordable housing and community development in Minnesota.

 

This award will invest $10,000 into our Central Minnesota community and support our Home Stretch Homebuyer Education classes which provide essential guidance for individuals looking to navigate the homebuying process with confidence. Topics include mortgage qualification, credit and affordability, loan closing procedures, and the responsibilities of homeownership.

 

Homebuyer Education offers valuable resources to help individuals get ready for homeownership. Additionally, many lenders require Homebuyer Education to ensure first-time buyers are well-informed about the process and expectations. 

 

Attendees hear from industry experts in lending, real estate, title services, and home inspection. They also receive a certificate of completion, which may be required by certain loan programs. Participants can also take advantage of free pre-purchase advising services for personalized support. 

 

"This grant opens the door to more than just a class—it offers families and individuals the chance to build a future with confidence,” said Lois Rengel, Catholic Charities Financial & Housing Counseling Supervisor. “Through homebuying education, participants gain essential tools to navigate budgeting, credit, mortgage options, and the true cost of owning a home. It’s not just about buying a house; it's about empowering people to make informed, confident decisions that protect their dreams and create lasting stability for generations to come."

 

FHLB Des Moines provides funding solutions to more than 1,200 members to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in the communities they serve. The Member Impact Fund provides FHLB Des Moines members up to $3 for every $1 in matching grant donations to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to support the needs of their communities.

 

“The Member Impact Fund enables our members to directly support local organizations who matter to them, creating value and a profound impact in their own communities,” said Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines. “The commitment of Stearns Bank to champion organizations like Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud inspires us all.” 

 

Recipient organizations were selected based on the needs for grant funding to support capacity-building or working capital necessary to strengthen their ability to serve affordable housing or community development needs including job training, affordable housing, financial literacy, food banks and youth programs.

 

Since its founding in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has supported affordable housing and community development with nearly $70 million in grants awarded by FHLB Des Moines. Member institutions apply and receive Member Impact Fund matching grants to be distributed to eligible organizations alongside their own grant contribution.

 

 

About Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines

 

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is deeply committed to strengthening communities, serving 13 states and three U.S Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. We work together with over 1,200 member institutions to support affordable housing, economic development and community improvement.

 

FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional Banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Members include community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts and community development financial institutions. FHLB Des Moines is wholly owned by its members and receives no taxpayer funding. For additional information about FHLB Des Moines, please visit www.fhlbdm.com.

 

 

Our Recent News

More than Just a Meal

By Brittany Hoversten • December 9, 2025
Our Senior Dining programs offer more than just a meal – they provide a nurturing environment that fosters friendships, healing, and a sense of belonging. Roberta, a Senior Dining Coordinator for 15 years, has witnessed the powerful impact of our services at the Grasston and Mora locations. Among the many events that have touched her heart, one couple’s journey stands out as a beautiful testament to the healing power of community. A woman who had recently suffered a stroke, faced significant challenges. Most of her right side, including her vision, was affected, and she was determined to regain her independence. After her therapy sessions, she and her husband would come to Senior Dining, where they found not only a meal but a circle of support and care. Every visit, a group of women diners would greet them with warm smiles, helping with her jacket and guiding the couple to their table. These kind-hearted women went beyond mere kindness – they helped the woman with her meal and made sure she was comfortable and well-cared for throughout the dining experience. Over time, the woman’s strength and independence began to improve. The therapy sessions, combined with the unwavering support of her new friends at Senior Dining, made a significant difference in her recovery. The bonds formed in that dining hall grew stronger, evolving into genuine friendships that transcended just shared meals. What had started as a place for nourishment soon became a sanctuary of laughter, conversation, and companionship. It was clear that the true nourishment was not just the food – it was the emotional and social support the diners received, creating an atmosphere that was as healing as it was comforting. The couple still maintains their deep friendships with the group of women they met at Senior Dining. Even in their 80s and 90s, they continue to get together three or four times a year, reminiscing about the meals that sustained them, the friendships that uplifted them, and the kindness that made all the difference. For Roberta, this story is a reminder of the true essence of her work. It’s not just about coordinating meals – it’s about creating a community where people care for one another, lifting each other up in times of need. 

Catholic Charities Barnes & Noble Bookfair – December 12, 2025

By Brittany Hoversten • December 8, 2025
Get your holiday shopping done while supporting a great cause! Catholic Charities is partnering with Barnes & Noble in St. Cloud for a Bookfair on Thursday, December 12, 2025 . A percentage of your purchase will benefit Catholic Charities’ programs—just mention you're shopping to support Catholic Charities at checkout! Shop in-store or online: In-store: Visit Barnes & Noble in St. Cloud on December 12 and let the cashier know you're supporting Catholic Charities. Online: Shop at https://www.bn.com/bookfairs from December 12–16, 2025 and enter Bookfair ID 12695763 at checkout. How to apply the Bookfair ID online: Add items to your cart and proceed to checkout. Scroll to the bottom of the checkout page. Click the plus sign next to “Add Bookfair ID.” Enter 12695763 and click Apply . Everything counts! Books, DVDs, music, vinyl, toys & games, and even Café purchases (except Starbucks-operated locations). Stock up for the holidays and help support Catholic Charities’ vital services in our community. Note: Gift cards, memberships, textbooks, video games, digital content (eBooks), and purchases at Starbucks-owned Cafés are excluded from Bookfair totals. Institutional discounts may not be applied.

A Family's Fight to Stay Home

By Brittany Hoversten • November 12, 2025
Allie and Ben’s dream of owning their first home came under threat when Ben unexpectedly lost his job. With two young children at home, Allie balanced evening classes while Ben had a steady income. However, when Ben lost his job, he struggled to make mortgage payments and, feeling overwhelmed, kept the issue hidden from Allie until it was too late. The arrival of a “sheriff sale” notice signaled their impending foreclosure. Determined to protect their home and their family, Allie turned to Catholic Charities’ Financial and Housing Counseling team for help. With guidance from a counselor, Allie learned about the foreclosure process and the potential solutions available to them. Together, they worked closely with the mortgage company, exploring options to address the overdue payments. After persistent efforts, Allie and Ben were able to negotiate a resolution that would prevent foreclosure. Thanks to the support they received, Allie and Ben were able to keep their home, which not only brought them financial stability but also strengthened their bond as a couple. Allie reflected on the importance of teamwork and open communication, acknowledging the valuable lesson they learned through the experience. “I’m so grateful for the support we received,” Allie said. “It taught us that facing challenges together is key to protecting what matters most—our home and our children.” Catholic Charities’ Financial and Housing Counseling program, which has been providing expert guidance since 1982, is available to anyone, regardless of income. As a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-licensed provider, our team is committed to helping families like Allie and Ben navigate financial challenges and build a secure future.