BMO has announced an $8 million commitment to nonprofit organizations in California, including $5 million in new grants aimed at strengthening communities across the state. This new funding supplements the $3 million LA Wildfire Recovery Fund that was pledged earlier in January 2025. The bank has now named 32 recipients for the wildfire recovery grants, which are intended to support recovery efforts following recent devastating fires.
The $5 million in grants will be distributed over several years to organizations focused on economic development, community strength, and sustainability. Among the recipients is Homeboy Industries, which will receive a $2 million grant for its work providing gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry services in Los Angeles. The funds will also support the development of Hope Village, a campus offering housing and mental health care for formerly incarcerated and unhoused individuals.
GRID Alternatives, based in Oakland, will also receive a $2 million grant to expand access to solar energy in California communities. The organization expects this initiative to benefit around 40,000 people and create job opportunities for approximately 1,000 individuals seeking employment in renewable energy sectors. Glide Foundation of San Francisco is set to receive a $1 million grant to launch a workforce development program for young adults facing barriers to employment.
Darrel Hackett, CEO of BMO U.S., stated: "These donations reflect BMO's deep commitment to driving progress for our communities, clients, and colleagues. Each of these organizations is doing transformative work to uplift Californians, and we're proud to be able to make a significant and ongoing contribution to ensure that they have the funding they need to accomplish their goals."
Shirley Torres and Steve Delgado, Co-CEOs of Homeboy Industries, expressed appreciation for BMO's support: "We're deeply grateful for BMO's ongoing partnership and belief in our mission. Their generosity helps sustain our daily work of hope, healing, and transformation – and propels us forward as we build Hope Village, a place where individuals and families can continue to find belonging and possibility."
Erica Mackie, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of GRID Alternatives commented: "BMO's partnership is making major positive impacts possible -- together, we're helping families maintain their home's affordability, reducing the burden of increasing electricity rates so they can use those savings for other living expenses like groceries, medical bills or transportation. GRID also provides paid hands-on training so job seekers gain the necessary experience to step into renewable energy careers. BMO's support enables GRID to unlock renewable energy projects and ensures access for underserved Northern California communities and families."
Dr. Gina Fromer, President & CEO of Glide Foundation said: "This generous grant in support of GLIDE's Transitional Age Youth Workforce Readiness program will mean the world to young adults facing barriers to employment. Thank you to BMO for their incredible partnership, and for believing in the potential of our young clients. Together we'll help them build the skills confidence and credentials they need to shine."
For wildfire recovery efforts specifically targeting Southern California communities affected by recent fires—including small businesses homeowners restoration groups—BMO has allocated its previously pledged $3 million fund among 32 local nonprofits working on cleanup safety infrastructure repair essential needs.
Joe Nagy President Altadena Community Garden remarked: "The way that organizations and individuals across Southern California have continued to rally together in recovery efforts is a true testament to the resilience of our community. We are thankful for BMO's continued support of our mission especially their commitment towards helping neighbors."
In addition to financial contributions BMO plans further employee-driven giving volunteer events aimed at supporting ongoing recovery efforts throughout affected regions.
Since acquiring Bank of the West in 2023 BMO made a broader commitment totaling $50 million toward philanthropic initiatives statewide having disbursed over $27 million as of August 2025.
Hackett noted: "When BMO acquired Bank of the West we inherited more than a footprint; we inherited a legacy of community connection across California... We take seriously our responsibility...to show up when our communities need us."
According to company information last year BMO directed over $80 million toward community progress with philanthropic contributions exceeding $74 million across North America alongside significant employee volunteering hours.
BMO Financial Group ranks as North America's seventh largest bank by assets serving customers across Canada United States select global markets with total assets reported at $1.4 trillion as of July 31 2025.