Independence Bank secures grant for new hospital and clinic
Independence Bank in Scobey has become a key player in the effort to build a replacement hospital and clinic in the community.
During the initial phase of the local capital campaign, Independence Bank partnered with FHLB Des Moines to secure a $100,000 grant toward project funding needs. In addition, Independence Bank has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to secure gap financing required to complete the project.
The bank reached these critical financial milestones for the project by working closely over the past two years with Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center (DMHC), Daniels Memorial Healthcare Foundation (DMHF) and many others committed to enhancing healthcare in northeast Montana.
“Investing in healthcare is investing in the future of rural communities,” said Jason Wolfe, branch president in Scobey and regional vice president of Eastern Branch Banking. “We are a proud sponsor of our many community projects and excited for the opportunities and the vibrancy this project will bring to Daniels County.”
“We are deeply grateful to Independence Bank for their generous support of our new hospital capital campaign,” said Kody Brinton, CEO of Daniels Memorial. “Their investment shows the power of community partnerships and ensures access to quality healthcare in our region for generations to come. This contribution is a tremendous boost to our project, and we greatly value Independence Bank’s commitment to the future of our community.”
Independence Bank was chartered in 1973 by a group of Havre business owners who wanted a local community bank. In 1998, Independence Bank’s expansion east included the purchase of Citizens State Bank in Scobey. Specializing in agricultural and commercial lending, Independence Bank emphasizes building relationships with customers by using local decision making and offering a full range of services tailored to meet the needs of the businesses and families in its communities.
“Independence Bank is proud to continue this commitment by supporting healthcare in Daniels County,” Wolfe added.
DMHF, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, has passed the halfway point in its $4.5 million capital campaign for the new healthcare facility. Total estimated cost for the replacement hospital and clinic is $35.3 million, with USDA Rural Development providing a loan to fund up to 80 percent of project construction costs. The project is in the design phase with groundbreaking targeted for late summer 2026.
Businesses and individuals interested to contributing to the capital campaign may find more information at danielsmemorialhealthcare.org/foundation/campaign. The campaign can accept one-time donations or multi-year pledges.