Island County Habitat Group Secures $25,000 Truck Grant

Habitat for Humanity of Island County will receive $25,000 from Peoples Bank to buy a new construction truck. The funding comes from the bank's 2026 Impact Grant program. The vehicle will support home repair and construction work on Whidbey and Camano Islands.

The grant covers the full cost of a new, reliable truck. A Habitat Repair Specialist will use the vehicle every day. It will carry tools, equipment, and building materials to project sites. The truck will also restore operations at the Habitat Store, which serves local residents.

Orin Kolaitis, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity of Island County, called the award a strong investment in service capacity. "Receiving the Peoples Bank Impact Grant is an incredible investment in our ability to serve Island County families," Kolaitis said. He noted the vehicle will help the group reach homeowners efficiently. The grant supports the preservation of affordable housing and helps neighbors remain safely housed.

Peoples Bank established the annual Impact Grant to fund specific projects with lasting community benefits. The program launched in 2017. It targets identified uses that create positive, long-term outcomes for local communities. Previous winners have included various local organizations with similar project-based needs.

Lisa Hefter, Chief Operating Officer at Peoples Bank, described the selection as a practical solution for residents. "Habitat for Humanity of Island County has a proven track record of helping local residents maintain safe, affordable housing," Hefter said. She added that the bank is proud to support an investment that strengthens the group's service capacity for years to come.

Peoples Bank operates as a locally owned, independent full-service community bank. The bank reports $2.4 billion in assets. It is headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, and has operated for 100 years. The bank runs 23 locations throughout Washington state. It recently received a five-star rating from BauerFinancial, an independent bank rating firm.

The bank also offers a $10,000 Peoples Choice Grant, which is determined by public voting. Nine additional applicants are currently under consideration for this secondary award. Community members can review the list and cast votes online at www.peoplesbank-wa.com/vote. The voting period closes at midnight on October 23, 2026.