Robert F. Smith, philanthropist and billionaire according to Forbes, is making headlines again. After clearing the debt of Morehouse graduates in 2019, the billionaire is now launching a program for HBCU students.
According to Essence, his organization, “Student Freedom Initiative,” has partnered with Prudential Financial to provide $1.8 million in microgrants to assist HBCU students.
“Student Freedom Initiative applauds the leadership of Prudential Financial and their support for our shared mission of eliminating barriers of access for underserved communities,” said Robert F. Smith, Chairman of Student Freedom Initiative in a news release. “By enabling the launch of the HELPS Program, a vital component of our work to address the holistic needs of HBCU students and families, Prudential’s gift will provide long-needed and often overlooked aid and support persistence of those most vulnerable in our community.
In addition to the grant, “internships and pro bono services to enable improved financial literacy for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) families and students.”
As reported, Robert F. Smith’s paid off the student loan debt for the Morehouse 2019 graduates, totaling $34 million. He also paid off the federal educational debt accumulated by the parents of the graduates.
Roomies, what do you think of this?
