Island County Habitat Group Gets $25,000 for New Truck

The amount stands at $25,000. That is the sum of the 2026 Peoples Bank Impact Grant awarded to Habitat for Humanity of Island County. The organization will use the full amount to purchase a new construction truck. This vehicle will support home repair and construction work across Whidbey and Camano Islands.

Peoples Bank created the annual grant program to fund specific projects with lasting local impact. The bank is headquartered in Bellingham and holds $2.4 billion in assets. It operates 23 locations throughout Washington. Orin Kolaitis serves as the chief executive officer for the Habitat group. He stated that the grant represents an investment in serving Island County families.

Kolaitis noted the vehicle will strengthen repair and construction programs. It will also restore essential operations at the Habitat Store. He said the impact extends beyond the truck itself. The funds help preserve affordable housing and keep neighbors safely housed. The truck will allow staff to efficiently reach homeowners on both islands.

A Habitat repair specialist will use the new truck daily. The vehicle will transport tools, equipment, and building materials. These items are necessary for affordable home repair projects. Lisa Hefter is the chief operating officer at Peoples Bank. She described the grant recipient as a practical solution for local families.

Hefter said Habitat has a proven record of helping residents maintain safe housing. The bank is proud to support an investment that strengthens the group's ability to serve the community. The Impact Grant program began in 2017. It aims to fund identified purposes with long-lasting positive effects on the community.

Peoples Bank also runs a separate $10,000 Peoples Choice Grant. The public can vote online to select the winner of that award. Nine additional applicants are currently under consideration. Voting for the choice grant ends at midnight on October 23.