ChoiceOne Financial Services Invests $1 Million in Affordable Housing and Community Support Initiatives

ChoiceOne Financial Services Champions Affordable Housing Initiatives

ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc., alongside its banking division, ChoiceOne Bank, takes a significant step towards enhancing community well-being by announcing a $1 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant to Fresh Coast Alliance. This initiative, unveiled on January 22, 2026, is a strategic collaboration with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, aimed at addressing critical housing needs for low- and moderate-income families. Kelly Potes, the CEO of ChoiceOne, emphasizes the importance of this grant in promoting housing stability, particularly through the renovation of four sober living homes managed by Fresh Coast Alliance.

The renovations funded by this grant are expected to increase housing capacity by 10%, providing essential support to men and women in recovery from incarceration or addiction. Joy Sparks, Executive Director of Fresh Coast Alliance, expresses her appreciation for the partnership, highlighting the integral role that dignity and second chances play in the reintegration process. This collaboration signifies a growing recognition of the importance of recovery housing in fostering community health and stability, an issue that resonates deeply with ChoiceOne's commitment to social responsibility.

Moreover, Patricia Brown, Vice President of ChoiceOne, reiterates the bank's fundamental belief in the necessity of affordable housing as a cornerstone for thriving communities. In addition to managing the grant, ChoiceOne commits to further financial support for Fresh Coast Alliance and plans to implement financial education classes through its Community Development Team. This multifaceted approach not only aims to enhance housing conditions but also fosters community engagement, signaling a concerted effort to create healthier, more supportive environments for individuals on their recovery journeys. The partnership illustrates how strategic alliances can effectively tackle pressing social challenges and promote long-term success for vulnerable populations.

In addition to the grant, ChoiceOne Financial Services is set to take an active role in supporting the broader community through financial education initiatives. These classes aim to empower individuals with essential financial skills, fostering a sense of independence and stability that complements their housing needs.

This collaboration with Fresh Coast Alliance reflects a proactive stance by ChoiceOne to invest in people, demonstrating that effective community support involves more than just financial assistance; it requires a holistic approach to address the diverse needs of individuals on their path to recovery.