Flint community toolshed reopens with short-term funding

FLINT, Mich. — After weeks of uncertainty, Flint’s free community toolshed has officially reopened.

The Neighborhood Engagement Hub (NEH) temporarily closed the toolshed last month after losing its primary source of funding. But on May 5, 2025, the shed resumed operations after receiving a $50,000 tax credit from the IRS.

That funding will keep the doors open through July 31. However, NEH is still seeking an additional $75,000 to maintain operations through November. The organization has launched a fundraising campaign and is in ongoing conversations with potential donors.

“This is challenging because we are experiencing unprecedented policy and funding shifts at the national level,” said Tom Wyatt, executive director of NEH. “Even as we work to raise these funds, we received word of another one of our programs whose funding was impacted by funding cuts.”

All three of the toolshed’s staff members have returned for the season, but for now, only one employee will work on Saturdays, meaning large equipment deliveries will likely be unavailable that day.

“Thank you to everyone who has donated to the program, spoken to your elected representatives and connected us with potential resource providers. You have encouraged us and caused our team to dig deeper,” Wyatt said.

To stay updated on toolshed developments, follow the Neighborhood Engagement Hub on Facebook.