Central Detroit Christian Community Development in Detroit has been strengthening its community through spiritual, educational, and housing means for more than 25 years. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has partnered with Gleaners Community Food Bank to distribute food to those who need it during this urgent time. The CDC provides numerous programs for youth to exceed in school while also preparing for life after school. Elementary aged children have programs like ABC’s In The “D” that improves basic reading and math skills, as well as a six-week summer day camp that provides meals and activities. Its Ready effort for high school upperclassmen is a 12-week program to train teens in skills such as computer literacy, customer service, and entrepreneurship so that once they’re out of the classroom they are ready for employment. Adults have access to educational programs such as a 20-week entrepreneurship program through Prosperous, and a financial wellness workshop that aims to develop budgets as well as good spending habits. CDC has also taken on an initiative to restore housing in their area, rehabbing more 200 homes to date. Additionally, CDC partnered with Liberty Bank and Trust in a move to support Detroit homebuyers through a nontraditional mortgage that allows the purchaser to finance the acquisition and any repairs or renovations the home needs.
