The Ruth Mott Foundation has awarded more than $2 million in its first 2019 grant cycle to projects and programs that serve north Flint residents in the areas of youth, safety, economic opportunity and neighborhoods.

Among the grants, the foundation continues its support for Berston Field House, the historic north Flint neighborhood hub offering youth development programs, community services and other civic engagement activities.

Berston received one of the first grants awarded when the Ruth Mott Foundation launched its north Flint strategy in 2016. Since then, under the stewardship of the nonprofit Friends of Berston group and United Way of Genesee County, the field house has continued to thrive as a trusted community center with expanded year-round programming that provides opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in activities that enhance quality of life in north Flint.

The Ruth Mott Foundation’s support will be used to leverage funds Berston will receive from the new Genesee County arts millage that must be used for arts education and cultural enrichment activities.

“Berston Field House is much more than a neighborhood center – it’s a landmark institution that residents of north Flint and beyond have enjoyed for decades,” Raquel Thueme, president, Ruth Mott Foundation said. “We are proud to support Berston and all of the recently awarded projects and programs, and we look forward to working with each of these organizations to enhance the quality of life in north Flint.”