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Last year, we discussed the situation in Flint, Michigan where its citizens were being poisoned by their water supply for years. The media finally started covering the subject and many celebrities stepped up to not only bring focus to the issue but to send needed supplies and money to the city. Fortunately, the water supply has been improved. However, the ramifications still reverberate within the community, something Bruno Mars is looking to help alleviate. Last Saturday, Bruno told his sold out Auburn Hills, MI audience that he was donating $1 million dollars from that evening’s concert revenue to Flint and its citizens.

Pop star Bruno Mars made a surprise announcement during his concert Saturday night in Auburn Hills, Michigan, announcing a $1 million donation to The Community Foundation of Greater Flint to address the city’s water crisis.

The money will come out of revenue from Saturday’s sold-out concert on Mars’ 24K Magic World Tour.

“I’m very thankful to the Michigan audience for joining me in supporting this cause,” Mars said in a statement. “Ongoing challenges remain years later for Flint residents, and it’s important that we don’t forget our brothers and sisters affected by this disaster. As people, especially as Americans, we need to stand together to make sure something like this never happens in any community ever again.”

“With a grateful heart, the Community Foundation of Greater Flint is honored to accept this inspiring donation,” President and CEO Isaiah M. Oliver said in a statement. “We know Bruno Mars’ $1 million gift will be transformative to the children and families of Flint. He understands the issues faced by Flint citizens, and we are touched by his concern and generosity.”

[From ABC News]

In addition to the statement in the excerpt, Bruno credited the crowd for reminding him and his band why they do what they do, “This is why we love what we do. We get a chance to go up on stage every night and perform … and the fact that we can show up here and celebrate under one roof together, all this positive energy that’s flowing. This is the world we want to live in.” Bruno’s positivity is refreshing. In addition to the remaining issues from the water crisis, Flint was hit with flash flooding at the beginning of this month, further taxing the city’s resources.

Flint has been put back on the Detroit water system and for the second consecutive six-month period the water has tested within the federal safety standards for lead levels, meaning the water is improved. Five of the city’s nine emergency stations that pass out free water supplies will close as a result. The four remaining centers will stay open indefinitely. In the meantime, the citizens are still dealing with the health issues and loss of economy the city suffered because of the crisis. Bless Bruno and his whole 24K Magic World Tour for providing Flint citizens with not only well-needed cash but reassuring them that they have not been abandoned.

Since there is so much ugliness to watch online every day, here is the video of Bruno’s announcement. Just play it on loop to remind yourself there is still good out there.

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