General Motors last week committed $50 million toward expanding access to education and employment opportunities for Detroiters and strengthening the city’s neighborhoods.
“As the home of our headquarters for more than a century, Detroit has always been a priority for General Motors,” CEO Mary Barra said in a statement. “We’re invested in supporting a strong future for this community. Our new commitment will help break down barriers and promote growth through education and economic success.”
In its first round of funding as part of the larger commitment, GM has made $4 million in grants:
- $1.25 million to a comprehensive digital support system that includes Internet connectivity, devices, tech support and digital literacy skills to create greater access to education and employment
- $1 million to support employment, health and well-being resources coordinated across the city with key agencies
- $1 million to a mobility initiative that aims to address transportation barriers for workers
- $750,000 to provide critical literacy education for students at Cody and Mumford high schools and support adults at the Family Literacy Center at Durfee Innovation Society.
The new commitment to the city builds upon decades of support in Detroit, GM said. Last year it funded 57 initiatives in the city, efforts that were projected to impact over 250,000 individuals.