Lots of famous folks have donated bottles of water. But many experts agree that long-term, it’ll be cash that’s the most needed.
The GM and the UAW are donating $3 million as part of a five year commitment to support the increased health and education needs for the children of Flint who have been impacted by lead-contaminated water to United Way of Genesee County. The goal is that the money will help address immediate, ongoing and growing needs of Flint children affected by lead.
“This crisis has impacted every Flint resident, most specifically children under the age of six who face a long road to recovery,” said Jamie Gaskin, CEO of the United Way of Genesee County. “We’re outlining a framework that will support these children with things like at-home care, nutritional assistance and early childhood and supplemental education so they can continue to learn and grow.”
This program will focus on the youngest residents, and include early literature programs, universal access to preschool, nutritional needs, school nursing, before-and after-school programming, increased special education capacity and increased social, emotional and behavioral health school counselors.
“It is important that we focus on the steps we can take for the children of Flint. We know that this crisis requires long-term commitment that focuses on those things that Flint families can do to mitigate their exposure to tainted water. Whether it is filters, medical care, educational resources or nutritional resources this partnership can have a lasting impact,” said Cindy Estrada, Vice President of the UAW GM Department in a statement.
The United Way is looking to raise a total of $100 million for the ongoing relief effort. According to the UAW, for information about how to get involved or make a financial contribution to the United Way of Genesee County, visit www.unitedwaygenesee.org – and if you are a City of Flint resident in need of assistance, please dial 2-1-1 or visit www.mi211.org.