Bloomsdale Bank partners with FHLB Des Moines to award $10,000 to the Friends Foundation of Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital through the Member Impact Fund
Grant program helps strengthen communities, expand opportunities and support local needs
Bloomsdale, MO, July 27, 2026 — Bloomsdale Bank, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines or Bank), today announced that Friends Foundation of Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital will receive a $10,000 grant through the Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program is designed to amplify the community engagement of FHLB Des Moines member institutions that support local housing, business and economic needs.
In Missouri, 956 applications received funding through partnerships with 174 member institutions. FHLB Des Moines matched $3 for every $1 contributed by a member institution, resulting in $6.5 million from members and $19.4 million awarded by FHLB Des Moines.
“We couldn’t let this incredible opportunity slip away to enhance our contributions to such a meaningful community project. This oncology garden holds a special place in my heart due to my family and the wonderful community we inhabit, which is touched every day by this initiative. It truly matters to me because I can step out of the bank each day and see the community that I have helped nurture, even in my small way, over the years. This project may be modest, but it has the potential for a significant impact,” commented Jerry Bergtholdt, CEO, Bloomsdale Bank.
Bloomsdale Bank has been a proud partner of the Friends Foundation of Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital since it was established. Together, they have been dedicated to improving their community through healthcare assistance and community development initiatives.
The Friends Foundation is dedicated to utilizing these funds for the maintenance and enhancement of the hospital’s oncology garden. This garden aims to enrich the treatment experience for oncology patients, providing a sense of tranquility and beauty through nature. It may be a modest space, but it has a significant positive impact on those undergoing treatment each day.
Mary Bleckler, director of the Friends Foundation of Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital, expressed gratitude for the support and shared the impact the grant will have on patients and families. “We are incredibly grateful to Bloomsdale Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines for their investment in our community. This funding will help us maintain and enhance our oncology garden, a special space that provides comfort, peace, and hope for patients and their loved ones during a difficult time. While the garden may be modest in size, its impact is profound, offering a place for reflection, healing, and connection with nature throughout the cancer journey.”
Katie Hogenmiller, RN, Director of Outpatient Services, shared how meaningful the project has been for the hospital community. “Nature has a way of lifting spirits,” she said. “For many of our patients, treatment days can be long and physically and emotionally demanding. This garden will offer a peaceful environment that promotes comfort, reflection, and healing.”
“The Member Impact Fund is designed to help our members champion the organizations that make a real difference in their communities,” said Kris Williams, president and chief executive officer of FHLB Des Moines. “By partnering with our members, we’re able to multiply resources and support their vital work as they continue to strengthen opportunities for the people they serve.”
Since its launch in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has provided more than $106 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines, generating over $144 million in combined support for affordable housing and community development. Notably, every eligible application submitted to the program has received funding, reflecting the Bank’s strong commitment to partnership and impact.
Photographed left to right: Friends Foundation Board President Tom French, Director of Outpatient Nursing Services Katie Hogenmiller, SGCMH CEO Steve Henson, Friends Foundation Director and Community Outreach Coordinator Mary Bleckler, Bloomsdale Bank CEO Jerry Bergtholdt.
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About Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB 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 financial 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.