Whirlpool Foundation Supports Community Revitalization Initiative “Project T” in Benton Harbor, Michigan

Whirlpool Foundation recently joined community and state officials to celebrate the groundbreaking of "Project T," a transformative redevelopment initiative in Benton Harbor, Michigan, also home to Whirlpool Corporation's global headquarters. This initiative, a public-private partnership, will redevelop the site of the former Mercy Hospital to construct 14 duplex buildings, marking Phase 1 of a project that will deliver up to 77 new homes when complete and will help revitalize a Benton Harbor neighborhood.

"Project T" is a collaborative effort, developed in partnership by Renovare Development and Harbor Habitat for Humanity, with support from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), the Michigan Growth Office, the City of Benton Harbor, and Whirlpool Foundation. A Whirlpool Foundation grant, combined with local tax programs and funding from MSHDA, has been instrumental in making this project a reality.

"Whirlpool Corporation has called Benton Harbor home for more than a century, and our investment in this project reflects our belief in this community's future," said Marc Bitzer, chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation. "By supporting sustainable design and attainable homeownership, we're helping create opportunities for families and ensure thriving neighborhoods for the long term."

Phase 1 will include 28 two- and three-bedroom homes designed for families earning 60-120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Six of the homes will be built to Zero Energy Ready standards, with planning supported by Whirlpool Corporation's sustainability team, integrating sustainable features throughout the site. This comprehensive approach, combined with specialty mortgage products, down payment assistance, and grants, is designed to empower families to build equity, strengthen stability, and, in the long term, create generational wealth.

Phase 2 will introduce 39 rental units, anchored by a childcare center. This holistic vision for the campus ensures that families not only have access to quality housing but also the essential support systems needed to thrive.

In addition to supporting the community of its global headquarters, Whirlpool Corporation has more than a quarter century relationship with Habitat for Humanity International, and Bitzer was elected to serve on Habitat's board earlier this year.

For more information on Project T, please visit projecttbentonharbor.com. For more information on Whirlpool Corporation's support of Habitat for Humanity, visit whirlpoolcorp.com/hfh.