Partnership brings $25 million in economic development to help Flint recover from water crisis
Today’s announcement of a $25 million boost to Flint’s economic future offers fresh hope and opportunity in a community battered by its water crisis.
The initiative, launched through a partnership of the FlintNOW Foundation and Huntington Bank, will help local businesses access much-needed financial resources to stabilize and grow their ventures in the wake of the water crisis. It also will support an entrepreneurship program to teach local children and young adults about business and money management, and provide financial help to residents facing home repairs related to the disaster.
“We applaud FlintNOW and Huntington Bank for this innovative and forward-thinking initiative,” said Mott Foundation President Ridgway White. “Their partnership is a wonderful example of how individuals and organizations, both inside our hometown and beyond, are coming together to invest in the future of Flint.”
Mott is one of several organizations that worked with FlintNOW and Huntington to explore needs and concerns — including economic vitality — prompted by the water crisis.
Others participating in the initiative include the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce, Metro Community Development and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
FlintNOW was created in January by Tom Gores, a Flint native and owner of the Detroit Pistons basketball franchise, to support the community’s response to its water crisis.
“I am really proud of Huntington for stepping up in such a substantial way and joining us in this cause,” said Gores in announcing the new initiative. “This partnership signifies the momentum we need for the future of Flint.”