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s part of DTE Energy’s commitment to its customers and the communities it serves, the Detroit-based energy company supports community engagement through initiatives like the North End Neighborhood Program, which provides a variety of resources to the historic North End neighborhood located near DTE’s Caniff and Trombly service centers.
Since the program’s inception in 2017, the company and its foundation have invested more than $2 million in time, resources and expertise, including a customized tool trailer that has offset thousands of dollars in costs to residents, businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Through discussions with residents, community leaders and other stakeholders in the North End neighborhood, DTE identified the need for tools and resources that the community could use to create safer, cleaner and more visitor-friendly public spaces. In response, the DTE Neighborhoods Team, the DTE Foundation and the Motor City Grounds Crew decided to launch the tool trailer, stocked with saws, rakes, lawnmowers, yard trimmers, wheelbarrows and other equipment. Multiple snow blowers and shovels are also available to assist residents during winter months.
“The tool trailer is a unique asset that allows DTE to work hand in glove with the community,” Chris Polk, senior program manager, DTE Public Affairs, told American Gas. “Equally as important, it provides additional tools and resources directly to residents and organizations who are focused on the sustainability and the future of their community.”
The tool trailer has been used more than 20 times in the past two years. —Eric Johnson