DTE team members made a significant impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness across Michigan by distributing innovative sleeping bag coats from Empowerment Plan.
These weather-resistant EMPWR coats can transform into a sleeping bag or be worn as an over-the-shoulder bag, providing both warmth and shelter in one, versatile design.
The initiative was made possible through a grant from the DTE Foundation, aimed at supporting the Empowerment Plan and those they serve.
Jamal Robertson, associate regional manager, DTE Energy, and proud veteran, spent Veterans Day distributing coats to local shelters, continuing his service to the community.
“It was truly meaningful to spend Veterans Day with my colleague Sarah, who is also a veteran,” said Jamal. “Continuing our service by supporting our communities and helping those in need made the day even more special.”
Many other DTE volunteers stepped up to distribute the coats, too. In total, nearly 270 coats were distributed to 20 shelters in various regions throughout Michigan, offering much-needed protection against the harsh elements.
Receiving shelters:
- Love Inc. – Cadillac
- Community Foundation of the UP – Escanaba
- Mel Trotter Ministries – Grand Rapids
- Muskegon Rescue Mission – Muskegon
- SOS Family Resource Center – Ypsilanti
- Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs – Ann Arbor
- Robert J. Delonis Center – Ann Arbor
- Shelter Association of Washtenaw County – Ann Arbor
- Nehemiah House – Petoskey
- Room at the Inn – Marquette
- Traverse City Police Dept/Quick Response Team – Grand Traverse
- FAN – Macomb County
- First United Methodist Church of Ferndale – Ferndale
- Motor City Mitten – Detroit
- Oaks Village – Monroe
- Outreach on 7th – Royal Oak
- Pope Francis Center – Detroit
- WAVE – Detroit
- Wolverine Street Medicine – Ann Arbor
- Association of Washtenaw County Delonis Center – Ann Arbor
- SOS Community Service – Ypsilanti