The 2024 Nonprofits Issue
Flathead Valley nonprofit leaders are working to battle rising food insecurity with a vast network of volunteers while housing advocates hope to form partnerships that will bolster affordable homeownership opportunities; plus, Market Metrics and Financial Corner
By Beacon Staff
Nonprofits Work to Battle Rising Food Insecurity
Local organizations like the North Valley Food Bank and the Agency on Aging continue to see a rising demand for their programs as the elderly population increases, food prices remain high, and housing unaffordability persists
As the holidays approach in northwest Montana and food insecurity remains steady, local nonprofits are working to keep up with demand that encompasses more than 5,000 square miles in Flathead County and beyond.
Local food banks and organizations designed to benefit senior citizens are increasingly reliant on volunteers and donations while nonprofit leaders have adjusted their programming to adapt to the community’s needs.
Read the rest of the story here.
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Nonprofit Seeks County Approval to Manage State-funded Workforce Housing Assistance Program
NeighborWorks Montana has systems in place to manage the $4.5 million in funding set aside for Flathead County workforce housing during the 2023 Legislature for a new homebuyer assistance program, which is contingent on county commissioner approval
When the 2023 Legislature set aside $50 million to address workforce housing across the state, lawmakers directed local housing nonprofits to establish management organizations for the new homebuyer assistant program and direct its funds, with $4.5 million designated for Flathead County.
Read the rest of the story here.
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This Month’s Market Metrics
Gas Prices (Nov. 27)
Hawaii (highest) – $4.54/gal | Oklahoma (lowest) – $2.42/gal | Montana – $2.90/gal
Glacier Park International Airport Passenger Stats (October)
Departures 2024 36,466 | 2023 31,122 Arrivals 2024 33,185 | 2023 27,949
Unemployment Rates (October)
U.S. 4.1% | Montana 3.3% | Flathead County 3.4%
Flathead County Residential Sales (October)
2024 148 | 2023 123 | 2022 155 | 2021 196
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Consider Tax-smart Charitable Gifts
Helping a charitable group and getting tax benefits for doing so is a “win” for everyone
As we enter the annual season of giving, you might be thinking of charities you wish to support. But you also might be wondering how to gain some tax benefits from your gifts.