News Summary
First Financial Bank has granted $20,000 to local organizations in Grand Rapids, including $15,000 to Kids’ Food Basket and $5,000 to the Grand Rapids Symphony Society. This funding aims to support community development initiatives, enhance access to nutritious food, and foster engagement in the arts. The bank’s commitment reflects a focus on improving social equity, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. Additionally, significant state funding is supporting the restoration of the historic Four Star Theatre, further contributing to community revitalization efforts.
Grand Rapids is witnessing a significant boost in community development as First Financial Bank has awarded a total of $20,000 in grants to local organizations. The Grand Rapids Symphony Society is receiving a $5,000 grant, while Kids’ Food Basket has been awarded $15,000. These grants are part of the bank’s annual giving campaign, which allocated a total of $550,000 to 96 organizations across the Midwest, focusing on crucial areas such as neighborhood development, education, workforce development, and the arts.
First Financial Bank’s chief corporate responsibility officer, Roddell McCullough, highlighted the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting both clients and the community, especially in low-income neighborhoods. The grant for Kids’ Food Basket is specifically aimed at enhancing access to nutritious food through its community-centered agriculture program. This initiative aims to alleviate food insecurity for many families in the area.
The $5,000 grant awarded to the Grand Rapids Symphony Society will support its Artists in Residence Program. This program is designed to engage students and community members in the arts, with over 60% of participants qualifying for free and reduced-price lunch, underscoring the program’s importance in providing artistic opportunities to underserved populations.
In Grand Rapids, the recent increase in funding for the “emerging developer” program further complements these grants. This initiative has invested $1.97 million in 13 housing projects, resulting in the creation of 261 housing units, primarily in under-invested neighborhoods, particularly on the southeast side of the city. Key projects supported by these funds include:
- MVillage: 71 for-sale and rental units; Award: $171,225; Developer: Debra Cross.
- Emory Arts & Culture Hub: 8 apartments above a community venue; Award: $104,500; Developer: The Diatribe.
- Southtown Lofts: 12 apartments and a broadcast studio for Power 91.9 FM; Award: $165,350; Developer: Dione Harp.
- Several other mixed-use developments and projects such as the Center for Latino Economic and Talent Advancement and Heights on Burton, with grants ranging from $39,500 to $200,000.
Additionally, the restoration of the historic Four Star Theatre in Grand Rapids has received a significant boost of $775,000 in state funding. Established in 1939, the theatre has a rich tradition in the arts and entertainment sector. The latest funding is earmarked for essential façade repairs and restoration of its iconic marquee. Previous restorations have also benefitted from contributions from Lowe’s Hometowns program and the Kent County portion of the American Rescue Plan Act.
Since acquiring the Four Star Theatre in 2017, Marcus Ringnalda has aimed to transform it into a vibrant space for diverse community activities. The ongoing renovation efforts are expected to enhance its role as a cultural arts hub in the region, offering a variety of performances and community-oriented events.
Overall, First Financial Bank’s grant contributions, together with state funding initiatives, signify a robust effort in revitalizing Grand Rapids and supporting its community’s needs. The focus on social equity, particularly in enhancing access to essential services and cultural activities, demonstrates a concerted effort to foster growth in underprivileged areas, ultimately benefiting the broader community.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Grand Rapids Groups Get Grants
- Wikipedia: Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Newcomer Developers
- Google Search: Grand Rapids community development
- Bemidji Pioneer: Blandin Foundation Grant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grand Rapids
- Fox17: Grand Rapids Theatre Grants
- Google News: Grand Rapids theatre restoration
- MLive: Rent Grants for Businesses
- Google Scholar: Community Development in Grand Rapids
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
