FLINT, Michigan–The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is donating $10,000 to the City of Flint to support a program developed by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley to deliver bottled water to the most vulnerable as part of the city’s response to COVID-19.
Mayor Neeley’s bottled water delivery program is a partnership with Nestlé Waters that operates in conjunction with four area churches to deliver bottled water to those with compromised immune systems.
Marcelino Sanchez, President of the Grand Blanc Stake, and Robert Leon, Bishop of the Flint Ward, presented the donation to Mayor Neeley via video conference on April 29, 2020.
“In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, we know that many people and businesses are facing financial hardships,” said Marcelino Sanchez. “Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from around the world fast once a month and donate what they would otherwise spend on food to a world-wide fund so that in times of need, such as this, we can address the needs of our neighbors whether they are members of our church or not.”
“We are grateful for the continued support to the City of Flint from members of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” Mayor Neeley said. “We value the relationship that members of the church have built in our community through their example of passionate service. We look forward to working together for the benefit of our community.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in Flint in 1935 and has long been a community partner and supporter. In addition to serving the community throughout the Flint water crisis, local members also organize an annual clothing driving. Working with the Grand Blanc Stake (regional group of congregations) and donations from Church headquarters, the clothing drives provide local families with much needed clothing for the upcoming winter season. In 2019, the clothing drive helped distribute 15,000 articles of clothing.
Those seeking bottled water delivery can contact the City of Flint Public Health Navigators at (810) 410-2020. Public Health Navigators also will deliver water filters, filter replacement cartridges, and water testing kits to residents’ homes.
“This gift from the Church of Latter-day Saints is another example of the great strength that comes from unity,” Mayor Neeley said.
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