The Kovach family of Morton, Illinois had long hoped to own their own home. Despite a good job with a nearby welding company and part-time employment with the local newspaper, Matt and his wife, Jennifer, an aide for the school district, had yet to make their hope a reality. The demands of raising three young boys -- Steven, Carter, and Ben -- simply absorbed most of their available resources. In addition, seven-year old Carter has diabetes, and the high cost of medical treatment and diabetic supplies made it difficult for the Kovachs to save the funds necessary for a home purchase.

In 2003, Matt and Jennifer heard about the Chicago FHLB's Downpayment Plus^® grant program from a friend at First Capital Bank in Peoria, Illinois. They were thrilled to learn that they qualified for a $4,000 downpayment assistance grant, which in turn enabled them to qualify for a mortgage through First Capital.

Now, just months later, the Kovachs are happily nestled in their new home. "The staff at First Capital educated us on the process and provided help during every step," explained Jennifer. The Kovach children, now two, seven and ten years old, particularly appreciate all of their new-found space. They love their new bedrooms and enjoy spending time playing in the yard and riding bicycles in the neighborhood. Their father, Matt, has already embarked upon an exciting home improvement project, single-handedly building a front porch from which his family can enjoy their new view.

First Capital Bank, along with other participating Chicago FHLB members, extended the benefits of the Downpayment Plus Program to nearly 1,600 families in 2003. Thanks to their involvement, families like the Kovachs are at last enjoying the opportunity to plant roots.