Win McNamee/Getty Images(DETROIT) — Madonna, a former resident of Bay City and Rochester, Michigan, has announced her long-term commitment to help revitalize the city of Detroit.
Madonna’s plan involves providing funding for three local organizations that are bringing hope to the financially-strapped city, where 60 percent of children live in poverty.
First, she’ll fund a new facility for the city’s Downtown Youth Boxing Gym, which provides free after-school boxing and educational mentoring to kids in Detroit’s Eastside area. Madonna will also provide the Detroit Achievement Academy with new equipment, art and music supplies, including iPads and Smart Boards for each classroom. Finally, she’ll provide support for The Empowerment Plan, a non-profit organization that hires and trains homeless women to sew garments for other homeless individuals, both in Detroit and throughout the country.
“I was deeply inspired by the efforts of so many people who I met who have dedicated themselves to helping the kids and adults in Detroit elevate themselves from the cycle of poverty,” Madonna said in a statement. “I have seen the results their commitment and hard work have already accomplished…it was obvious to me that I had to get involved and be part of the solution to help Detroit recover.”
“A piece of my heart will always be in Detroit and I’m humbled to be able to give back to my community,” she added.
Follow @ABCNewsRadio
Copyright 2014 ABC News Radio
