In a slam dunk collaboration unveiled in March 2024, GE Appliances, Detroit Pistons standout Cade Cunningham, and the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Foundation are joining forces to empower students and address key barriers to their education.
This partnership will see the donation of essential laundry units across DPSCD schools by GE Appliances, and the establishment of Cade’s Care Closets, funded by Cunningham’s $60,000 contribution, providing toiletries, hygiene products and non-perishable snacks for students to access throughout the school year across DPSCD’s five current health hubs, which are located at Osborn, Central/ Durfee, Western, East English Village at Finney, Southeastern.
Teaming up to Remove Barriers to Education
“We are thrilled to join forces with GE Appliances and Cade Cunningham in this vital initiative that underscores our unwavering dedication to the well-being and academic success of our students, said Kerrie Mitchell, President & CEO, Detroit Public Schools Community District Foundation. “Ensuring access to essential resources like laundry facilities goes beyond convenience; it’s about providing dignity, fostering self-esteem, and removing barriers to education. This partnership reflects our commitment to holistic student support and exemplifies the power of community collaboration in making a tangible difference in our young people’s lives. Together, we are setting a precedent for how public and private sectors can unite to uplift and empower our future generations of Detroit.”
The Partnership Was Inspired by Detroit Pistons Guard Cade Cunningham
“Growing up my parents always instilled in us the importance of giving back, and I’ve brought that mentality with me to the NBA,” Pistons guard Cade Cunningham said. “I’m very thankful and blessed I was able to make an impact through Cade’s Care Closets for the second year in a row both in Detroit, and in my hometown of Texas, and together with GE Appliances, reach these students and communities in an impactful way.”
Every DPSCD School Will Score
GE Appliances will expand the offering to schools across the district over the next year, eventually outfitting every school within DPSCD with a laundry unit.
“GE Appliances has a long-standing commitment to public education and supporting access for students to thrive and achieve,” said Katina Whitlock, senior manager of Community Engagement for GE Appliances.
“This past October, we launched our laundry center donation program in our hometown of Louisville, KY with Jefferson County Public Schools- one of the largest school districts in the country. The donations directly impact student attendance and performance by supplying a necessary resource for students and families who may not have access to laundry services at home or in their neighborhood. We’re excited to partner with Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Public Schools Community District to support families across Detroit.”
