The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has announced a $4 million commitment to Communities First, Inc. to purchase and redevelop the now-shuttered Baker College campus in Flint, Michigan. 

Communities First plans to transform the campus, which has been vacant since 2020, into a mixed-use property that will provide space for social service organizations, businesses, vocational and technical training, and apartments for individuals and families. The property includes over 40 acres of land as well as more than 400,000 square feet of building space, two dormitories, multiple classroom and office buildings, and a library. 

“Thanks to Communities First’s vision and dedication to Flint and Genesee County, this vacant property will become an asset instead of a liability,” said Mott Foundation president and CEO Ridgway White. “The former Baker College campus has tremendous potential for providing enhanced social and educational services, as well as additional safe and affordable housing opportunities.” 

“This site represents an important investment in our community,” said Communities First president and CEO Glenn Wilson. “We plan to locate resources and opportunities there that will empower people to reach their personal and professional goals.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Denis Tangney Jr.)