LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer wrote a letter to President Donald Trump this week requesting federal funding to use Michigan's National Guard as part of the state's response and support to COVID-19.
Full coverage: Coronavirus outbreak in Michigan
Under the governor's control, the National Guard would be used to aid in distributing resources like food and supplies to people impacted by the spread of the virus.
“Despite the many challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented, Michiganders have risen to meet the challenge by helping their friends, families, and neighbors in taking proactive steps to mitigate the spread,” Whitmer wrote in the letter. “My administration has also taken necessary actions to protect families, workers, and businesses against the spread of COVID-19. While I am confident in the unconquerable spirit of our citizens and their ability to persevere, COVID-19 is unlike anything we have encountered in our lifetime and we need the help of the federal government.”
On Wednesday, Whitmer called on 11 National Guard members to help the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services with assembling and loading personal protective gear such as gloves, gowns and face shields.
Once packaged, the state health department will deliver the supplies to health departments across the state. With the request, the president would allow more resources for guard members to help Michiganders.
Read the entire letter below.
Whitmer writes to Trump requesting federal funding to use Michigan National Guard by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd