The FlintNOW Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is announcing its first round of grant funding, totaling $1,595,000, to support essential programs in the Flint community. A second round of grant funding is planned for 2025, furthering the Fund’s commitment to creating lasting impact and addressing Flint’s evolving needs. 

The FlintNOW Fund, established by Tom Gores, Chairman and CEO of Platinum Equity and owner of the Detroit Pistons, emerged in response to the Flint water crisis. This fund supports immediate and lasting improvements in Flint, Michigan, prioritizing projects that foster community well-being, economic growth, and access to education. The FlintNOW Fund is committed to creating positive change by addressing the community's most pressing needs.  

Tom Gores, Chairman and CEO of Platinum Equity and owner of the Detroit Pistons, emphasized the importance of these grants in strengthening Flint’s community.  

"Our partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint has stretched the impact of our giving. What started as a response to a water crisis has now evolved into a tremendous grantmaking program that is delivering support in my hometown,” said Gores. “These first round of grants will help these well-deserved organizations continue their mission to transform communities and create change for children and families of Flint.” 

“These grants exemplify the power of collaboration in addressing Flint’s most urgent needs while investing in our community’s future," said Dan Kildee, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. "Through the FlintNOW Fund, we are able to support innovative programs that uplift children, families, and neighborhoods across Flint. This first round of funding reflects our ongoing commitment to creating lasting change and ensuring a brighter tomorrow for everyone in our community." 

Communities First, Inc. has been awarded $120,000 to support Safe Play at the Community Enrichment Center. This program provides safe recreational spaces and equipment for children in the MLK+ neighborhood on Flint’s Northside, fostering a safe and supportive environment for local families. 

Vision to Learn has received $300,000 over two years to support At-School Access to Vision Care for Beecher/Flint Area Students. By delivering essential vision care services directly in schools, this program removes barriers to learning and promotes educational success for students in Flint and Beecher. 

Michigan State University has been awarded $500,000 over two years to advance the Rx Kids: Prenatal and Infant Allowances initiative. This innovative program provides all expectant mothers and infants in Flint with direct financial support, including a one-time prenatal allowance of $1,500 and monthly allowances of $500 for infants through their first year. This initiative promotes health, equity, and opportunity from the earliest stages of life by supporting mothers and infants. 

The Greater Flint Health Coalition has received $75,000 to expand Mid-Michigan CHAP, a program that coordinates access to health services for children. This program helps families secure well visits, preventive care, and developmental support. It aims to improve health outcomes for Flint’s children and reduce healthcare costs. 

Motherly Intercession, Inc. has been awarded $100,000 over two years to strengthen the Strengthening Family Villages program, which supports families impacted by incarceration. Through this initiative, families in Flint gain access to essential resources and support networks that promote positive outcomes for parents and children. 

InvolvedDad has received $100,000 over two years to continue DIALOGUE Year 2, a two-generation program focused on health and well-being. This program equips Flint’s youth and families with tools for resilience and empowers service providers to build stronger family connections. 

Child Care Network Washtenaw Regional 4C has been awarded $150,000 over two years to support the Family Support Program 2025, which expands access to high-quality childcare for Flint families. By providing financial assistance for childcare, this program enables parents to pursue education and employment while ensuring their children are safe and well cared for. 

The Flint Institute of Music has received $50,000 for Systems-Impacted Youth Therapy. This program uses therapeutic approaches to address the effects of trauma, neglect, and lead exposure on Flint’s youth. This initiative promotes healing and resilience among young people, empowering them to build brighter futures. 

The R.L. Jones Community Outreach Center has been awarded $125,000 to expand the Northeast Flint Client Choice Pantry Project, which offers Flint residents access to fresh food in a respectful and empowering way. This model supports food security while honoring individual preferences and reducing waste. 

The Salvation Army has received $75,000 over two years to support the L.I.F.E. Center, which offers free health, fitness, and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in the Beecher community. This initiative supports healthy lifestyles and positive development for young people in Beecher. 

For more information about the FlintNOW Fund and its grant recipients, please visit cfgf.org/FlintNOWFund.