Foundations Pledge $125 Million for Recovery from Flint Water Crisis

Ten foundations have announced $125 million in grants to aid Flint in its recovery from the water crisis.

According to a news release, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, FlintNOW Foundation, For Foundation, The Hagerman Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Ruth Mott Foundation, Skillman Foundation and W.K. Kellogg Foundation are initial supporters. More partners are expected be announced.

Initial funds will be focused on six priorities:

• Ensuring that all Flint residents have safe drinking water.
• Meeting the health needs of Flint families
• Supporting early education
• Building a more robust non-profit sector
• Promoting community engagement
• Revitalizing Flint's economy

Ridgeway White, president of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation which has committed $50 million in the first year and up to $100 million total over five years, said "Flint's water crisis is far from over. While some funds and services have been provided, we're still waiting for the state and federal governments to step up, replace damaged infrastructure and make long-term commitments to the health and education of children." He added the foundations "envision Flint with a robust economy, dynamic culture, and healthy, thriving residents."