Flint, Michigan, February 24, 2016 – The Ruth Mott Foundation Board of Trustees has dedicated $1 million in funding to address the Flint water crisis.
“We feel great compassion for our community and we are compelled to act knowing that the water situation clearly impacts the health and vitality of every resident. We have made this pledge to support Flint residents during this crisis,” said RMF Chair Maryanne Mott.
The $1 million in funding will be directed toward short term and long term needs of Flint’s children and adults exposed to lead.
Two initial grants have been awarded from this commitment. The first grant is $90,000 to the United Way of Genesee County for its ongoing efforts as a community connector and resource for water crisis emergency response systems. The second grant is a $150,000 contribution to the Flint Child Health and Development Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. The Fund is a supplemental resource to the ongoing pursuit of state and federal funding to aid children with health, nutrition and education interventions that support positive outcomes for Flint’s children exposed to lead.
“While it is essential for the foundation to address the water crisis through this financial support, as a Flint place-based funder we are here to work in partnership with the community to implement solutions to this and other issues that contribute to a better future for Flint residents,” said Handy Lindsey, RMF President.
As a result, the $1 million dedicated to the Flint water crisis will not reduce the foundation’s commitment to implementing its strategic plan in north Flint. That work will proceed making use of an array of resources including grantmaking as well as the foundation’s ability to engage with residents, convene community leaders, and present Applewood as a unique venue for learning, technical assistance, engagement and reflection.
The Ruth Mott Foundation’s mission is to advocate, stimulate, and support community vitality. The foundation envisions communities of hope and pride, whose neighborhood environments and urban core are safe, attractive and healthy, enriched by cultural diversity and an engaged citizenry.
For more information, please contact Handy Lindsey at 810-233-0170.