UAW Ford, Ford Motor Co. and United Way of Southeastern Michigan to launch project to provide 40 ramps in 20 weeks

DETROIT -- UAW Ford and Ford Motor Company will invest $200,000 to build 40 ramps in 20 weeks for persons with disabilities in the Tri-County area this summer. 

This will more than triple the number of ramps provided in 2011 for the Ray West Memorial Ramp Project, managed by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan since 1988.  In all, 300 ramps have been provided to people in need in southeast Michigan during the past 24 years.  

Ramps are provided to individuals in southeast Michigan at or below the poverty level.  Wheelchair ramps make it possible for people with disabilities to maintain an independent lifestyle, become self-sufficient and to have access to their community. 

WHO: Ford Vice President of North American Manufacturing Jim Tetrault, UAW Vice President Jimmy Settles; and President & CEO of United Way of Southeastern Michigan Michael J. Brennan, Booker Mangrum (ramp recipient).

WHAT: Media launch of 40 Ramps in 20 Weeks, a partnership between UAW Ford, Ford Motor Company and the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. 

WHEN:  Wednesday, June 27, 2012

2-3 p.m.   Dedication of ramp after completion of the installation at Mangrum home.

WHERE: 16531 Fielding, Detroit  48219 

PARKING: Available on street.