The Flint Freedom Schools Collaborative (FFSC) was born out of necessity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to our community. In 2016, Bethel United Methodist Church, led by Rev. Faith Green Timmons, hosted the city’s first Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools summer site in response to the ongoing challenges faced by Flint families, exacerbated by the Flint Water Crisis. Two years later, the New Evolution Educational Center launched additional sites at Agape Church and Mt. Olive. In 2019, these efforts merged to form The Flint Freedom Schools Collaborative (FFSC), uniting resources, expertise, and a vision for closing educational gaps, fostering positive self-esteem, and nurturing the development and retention of youth, young adults, and professional talent throughout Flint, Genesee County, and the state of Michigan.