Rachael Ray, Rite Aid announce $25K donation to Detroit's Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program

CAMP HILL, Pa. - The Rite Aid Foundation's KidCents program announced Wednesday a $25,000 donation to the Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program, a Detroit-based nonprofit that empowers Detroit youth to be positive and productive members of society through education, athletics, mentorship and intervention.

The donation, which was announced during Wednesday's episode of Rachael Ray, will support program operations as it works towards helping its students stay on the right path through mentorship and academics. The Rite Aid Foundation also provided the organization with $5,000 worth of school, office, first aid and cleaning supplies.

"It's clear that Rachael Ray shares Rite Aid's core value of being a caring neighbor, which is why we are thrilled to partner with her in supporting the Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program," stated Ken Martindale, CEO of Rite Aid stores, president of Rite Aid and president of The Rite Aid Foundation. "This unique organization is truly making a difference in the lives of every child who walks through its doors and we hope our donation will help them continue serving Detroit youth through the coming year."

The Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program is a free after school educational resource for Detroit youth. The organization currently serves 110 students between the ages of 5 and 18, with more than 600 on a waiting list. To date, the organization has seen a 100% high school graduation rate and most of those students go on to college.

"Thanks to the generous donation provided to us by The Rite Aid Foundation we are able to help our members learn, grow and realize their full potential," said Khali Sweeney, founder of Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program. "Partners like The Rite Aid Foundation and Rachael Ray are helping us positively impact each and every child we have the opportunity to work with, promoting our children's long-term health and the stability of the overall community."