Community Reinvestment funds
Strengthening relationships with people and business
The Community Reinvestment Fund (CRF) is an initiative designed to alleviate poverty and promote equity, dignity, and self-sufficiency among low-income residents of South Central Washington, particularly focusing on Black, Latine, and Tribal populations.
CRF supports economic security, resilience, and inclusivity through direct support of individuals and businesses that live and operate in Kittitas, Klickitat, Skamania, and Yakima counties. Funded by the Washington State Department of Commerce, this initiative promotes asset building by emphasizing hiring and retention, internships, on-the-job training, education, and certification.
How we reduce inequities and lift up communities
Our first Community Reinvestment grant went to downtown Yakima’s Native-American-owned Schab’s Bier Den.
The funds will allow the pub to buy new equipment to offer more freshly prepared food. In addition, the owners will be able to update the furnishings.
Haley Schmidt and Amy Martinez presented the big check to owners Trena and Zack Schab.
This CRP grant went to Custom Clean Cuts, a Native/Black-owned business in Yakima.
When asked about the CRP program, business owner DeShawn Arcasa said, “This grant helps me not only do what I love but (also) put me in a position to help others.”
Travis Piatz and Haley Schmidt awarded the check to DeShawn and his brother.
Help for small businesses
Washington has a Small Business Liaison Team made of representatives from 27 agencies who work to make it easier to do business in Washington state! Download their free Small Business Guide.