Governor Whitmer Announces Huntington’s $5 Billion Commitment
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 2020 Contact: Emily Smith ([email protected]), 614-480-6834 Matt Samson ([email protected])
Huntington and Governor Whitmer Announce Huntington’s $5 Billion Commitment to Help Boost Economic Opportunity Throughout Michigan
Bank’s Community Plan focuses on small-business support, social equity, economic inclusion and affordable housing
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Huntington Bancshares Inc. (Nasdaq: HBAN; www.huntington.com) and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced a $5 billion, five-year lending, investment and philanthropic commitment to help improve financial opportunities for Michigan businesses, consumers and communities.
Part of a $20 billion Community Plan Huntington announced Sept. 1, the Michigan plan was developed in cooperation with the Governor and Michigan community organizations to ensure the bank’s commitment reflects the needs of all people and businesses throughout the state.
“In this critical time when businesses are confronting the extreme challenge of a public-health crisis, recession and issues related to social equity, Huntington’s purpose of looking out for people calls us to do more for Michigan’s small businesses, consumers and communities,” said Sandy Pierce, Huntington’s director of Private Banking, Insurance Agency, Vehicle Finance and Regional Banking. “We believe this commitment is a very meaningful investment in Michigan’s economic future.”
In the next several months, the bank will announce specific initiatives to support small businesses, consumers and communities. The plan will evolve as Huntington continues to listen and take action to meet the changing needs of Michigan’s communities.
“This is great news for Michigan’s small-business owners who have faced unprecedented challenges as we have navigated the COVID-19 pandemic over the past six months,” said Governor Whitmer. “These are Michiganders who have spent their lives building their businesses and who need our help now more than ever. I am proud to work with Huntington Bank as they continue to provide support to our small-business owners and build strong communities in our state, and I’m committed to continue working on behalf of small-business owners as we fight back against COVID-19.”
“Michigan’s rural small businesses and urban micro businesses have been especially hard hit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on Michigan’s economy, and minority- and women-owned businesses throughout the state are seeking opportunities to stabilize and thrive,” Pierce said. “Our commitment to Michigan’s small businesses reflects the role they play in driving the state’s economy and the foundation they provide for our economic health.”
Huntington’s 2020 Community Plan reflects increased investments in the following areas:
“This is an opportunity to take a more deliberate approach toward investing in the people and businesses that will have the greatest impact in our communities,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “I’m excited to see how we can build upon this partnership with Huntington Bank to advance equity in economic growth to ensure that new doors are open to a more diverse group of entrepreneurs at every stage of their business.”
Huntington will work with community organizations across the state to implement its Michigan Community Plan.
“Huntington’s extraordinary and timely commitment is welcome news to struggling families and small businesses,” said Hector Hernandez, executive director of Southwest Economic Solutions. “The health and economic crises are disproportionately harming minority communities because of structural inequities in opportunity. Huntington’s community plan takes aim at these inequities by strategically investing in entrepreneurship, homeownership, job training and financial education so that families can build wealth and brighter economic futures.”
“We’re honored to work with many outstanding partners who share our commitment to building stronger communities throughout Michigan,” Pierce said. “Together, we can inspire higher levels of community engagement and deliver new opportunities for all the people we serve.” |
Are you up for a challenge? During 
“Michigan Trails Week is the perfect time to get out and explore Michigan’s amazing network of trails,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “Whether it’s on your first trail, your favorite trail or one brand new to you, the Michigan Trails Week Challenge is for anyone and everyone who wants to get out of the house and connect with nature.
“During this past year, trails have provided me with endless peace of mind,” said Andrea LaFontaine, executive director of the Michigan Trails and Greenway Alliance. “Now, more than ever, we are seeing the importance of trails to our personal well-being and to our communities. I encourage you to invite a friend, recruit a family member and sign up for the event. I look forward to hitting the trails with you, virtually!”
After 
Streets, parks and other public spaces are going to look a little greener thanks to a grant program sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the DTE Energy Foundation and the nonprofit ReLeaf Michigan. Twenty-eight Michigan communities will plant 1,100 trees in those spaces, sharing $91,870 in grants dedicated to tree-planting projects.
As waterfowl season nears, hunters are reminded to take steps to prevent the spread of invasive species. Cleaning and drying boats and gear, then draining bilges and water tanks, can help maintain quality habitat in Michigan’s waters.
Preparing for everything from a bee sting and bear sightings to blocked roads and bad weather helps ensure an enjoyable adventure in the outdoors, especially if you’re heading into the wilder side of Michigan’s public lands.
