
Tom Gores
Gores, who grew up in suburban Flint, said government support and emergency funding isn't going to be enough, especially not in the long-term, and he's willing to put his own money up if he has to.
"Flint was once a cornerstone of American industry that gave a lot to this country. We need help now more than ever and ask that people from coast to coast continue stepping up,” Gores said in a statement.
The billionaire investor's going to make use of his own Rolodex to solicit cash and is establishing a task force to rally support, identify needs, and make sure any money raised is being spent where it's needed most.
"I am committed to helping drive that effort. I grew up in Flint, my family has strong roots there, and I believe in the people who live there," he said. Gores' family moved to Flint from Israel when he was four and his father owned a grocery store. Gores graduated from Genesee High School and MSU and went on to found Platinum Equity, a global investment firm that's been making people rich since 1995. The Pistons and Palace Sports & Entertainment became his for $325 million in 2011.