Pistons’ owner pledges $10 million for Flint relief efforts

“The issues facing Flint won’t be solved solely through government intervention and emergency support,” Gores said in a press release. “The private sector needs to play role here, and I am committed to helping drive that effort. I grew up in Flint, my family has strong roots there, and I believe in the people who live there.”

The city’s water supply remains contaminated with lead, which makes it unsafe for consumption. Citizens have no option but to drink bottled water as they wait for the situation to be resolved.

Gores, who was born in Israel but grew up in Flint, is not only contributing financially to the drive, but has also created a task force led by Pistons Vice Chairman Arn Tellem and Platinum Equity Partner Mark Barnhill. The task force’s goals are to help provide immediate short-term relief, fund programs to help local children in the future and help revitalize the area in the long term.

To help achieve those goals, Gores plans to garner the support from business leaders across the country. He bought the Pistons and Palace Sports & Entertainment in 2011 after becoming a billionaire in the private equity sector.

“Families and children who live in Flint are suffering, but this is a national issue,” Gores said. “Flint was once a cornerstone of American industry that gave a lot to this country. We need help now more than ever and ask that people from coast to coast continue stepping up.”

The Palace of Auburn Hills, located about 40 miles southeast of Flint, as well as other nearby PS&E venues like DTE Energy Music Theatre could be used to host benefit concerts, Platinum Equity spokesperson Dan Whelan told Crain’s Detroit Business.

“We have a lot of ways we can mobilize,” Whelan said, “So, we’re going to put the full force behind it.”