CUT BANK — The Cut Bank branch of the Glacier County Library has received a $1,500 grant from the Cut Bank Community Foundation (CBCF) to expand its Monday after-school programming with new STEAM activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. The grant application was submitted by the Friends of the Library and was one of five projects funded by CBCF this year.

The funding will allow the library to purchase a 3D printer, STEM kits, and creative building materials to enhance hands-on learning during the weekly program. These additions will strengthen the library’s popular “Craft & LEGO Club,” held Mondays from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Library Director Austin Castle said the goal is to provide free, engaging activities that spark curiosity and support literacy and learning. “This grant helps us give local kids access to fun, modern STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) experiences they may not have at home,” he said. Castle pointed out Cut Bank has a high poverty rate and many local youth do not have access to STEAM learning opportunities. “This project will help us bridge the gap by providing an inclusive space for youth of any background to develop their creativity and critical thinking skills.”

The Cut Bank Community Foundation is in the final push of its year-end fundraising campaign, with a goal of raising $10,000 by Dec. 31. If the goal is met, the foundation will receive $5,500 in matching funds from the Montana Community Foundation (MCF), and the full $5,500 will be awarded to support local projects in early 2026.

CBCF advisory committee members LeAnne Kavanagh, Jim Woodring, Val Vermulm, Bess Hjartarson, and Whitney Bugni announced the addition of new members Dylan Johnston, Chrissy Grimm and Jim O’Day.

“Dylan, Chrissy and Jim are welcome additions to our board,” Woodring said. “They are wasting no time jumping in and working hard to help us reach our goal.” As of press time, Woodring reported the CBCF has raised nearly $5,000 toward its $10,000 goal.

“As an affiliate of the Montana Community Foundation, we can grant 4.5% of our endowment each year for local projects,” added Kavanagh. “The larger our endowment, the greater the impact our grants will have in the community.”

“Our goal is to grow the endowment to a level that will allow us to sustainably award community grants to support local organizations and projects,” Woodring said.

Community members and businesses are encouraged to contribute to CBCF’s year-end campaign by donating any amount before Dec. 31.

Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to: Cut Bank Community Foundation

P.O. Box 111 Cut Bank, MT 59427

Online donations may be made at: https://mtcf.org/giving/donate-now/give-now?fn=cut-bank-community-foundation-endowment 

Monthly recurring donations are also available for those seeking a budget-friendly way to give.