Affordable Housing and Home Ownership
Through Carolina First and Mercantile Bank, we are committed to the provision
of affordable housing and homeownership opportunities throughout the
communities we serve. Through our strategic partnerships and community
outreach efforts, we provided over $38 million in affordable housing and
homeownership financing for families throughout the Carolinas and Florida.
Carolina First Initiatives
Carolina First demonstrates a commitment to affordable housing and
homeownership through partnerships with SC State Housing, the
Federal Home Loan Bank, local government, community-based
organizations and affordable housing providers. For example, we
partner with the City of Columbia and other community-based
development corporations to provide financing for low- and
moderate-income and first-time homebuyers in Empowerment Zone and
Renewal communities. Through our partnership with a local Habitat
for Humanity, we provided financing in support of a small
subdivision for low-income homebuyers. Additionally, Carolina First
has financed the construction and renovation of homeless shelters,
transitional housing and recovery shelters for substance and
domestic abuse victims throughout various communities across South
Carolina.
Mercantile Bank Initiatives
Mercantile Bank demonstrates a commitment to affordable housing and
homeownership through partnerships with Florida State Housing,
local government, community-based organizations and affordable
housing providers. For example, we partnered with a local
homebuilders association who provides housing repair services to
low- and moderate-income residents. Additionally, the bank provided
financing to an affordable housing non-profit organization in
support of housing development and homeownership assistance for
families in need.