JACKSON, Mich., March 23, 2020 – Making a personal commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, Consumers Energy President and CEO Patti Poppe and her husband announced today they are donating $1 million to help small businesses in her company’s hometown of Jackson.

“We like to say at Consumers Energy that no one can do everything, but everyone can do something. I think it’s important that we all do what we can right now to help our friends and neighbors,” Poppe said. “Small businesses are the heart of our state, and my husband and I are hopeful that we can do our part to help the businesses in our hometown  through this extraordinary time.”

Poppe and her husband, Eric, are making the donation to the Jackson Community Foundation to set up the Dream Maker Small Business Emergency Relief Fund. The money ultimately will be provided as grants to businesses through The Enterprise Group, Jackson County’s economic development agency. Patti Poppe is a Jackson County native and still lives in the county today.

The fund will accept donations from the public. Learn more: www.jacksoncf.org/online-donation.

The Consumers Energy Foundation also announced last week it is supporting two statewide organizations with a $500,000 contribution to help enhance critical services for Michigan children, vulnerable seniors and those who need assistance in the wake of COVID-19. The Food Bank Council of Michigan and the Michigan Association of United Ways will each receive $250,000.

“In big ways or small, we all have a responsibility to care for our communities. We’re fortunate to be able to contribute in such a big way and hope to see others in Michigan take similar actions as we all come together by staying apart in the weeks ahead,” Poppe said.

Consumers Energy is focused on serving its Michigan neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more at ConsumersEnergy.com/coronavirus.