Laundry Business Awarded National Black History Makers Grant

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Citi Trends Inc., an off-price value retailer of apparel, accessories and home trends primarily for Blacks, named a Detroit laundry business among the grant winners of its 5th Annual Black History Makers program.

Receiving one of 10 $5,000 grants awarded is Darlene Perkins, founder of Mobile Laundry Detroit, a social enterprise dedicated to providing accessible laundry services to underserved communities in Detroit and the metropolitan area.

The contactless laundry service was established in 2020 as a part-time initiative to support single mothers, busy entrepreneurs, and senior citizens who faced challenges during COVID-19 when essential resources were scarce, Citi Trends says.

“This grant comes at a pivotal moment, as I left my corporate position earlier this year to pursue a vision that God placed on my heart five years ago,” Perkins says. “As I scale my efforts, I recognize the need for additional support to amplify my impact.”

She plans to leverage the funds to further the mission of establishing a self-service laundromat in Detroit, which will expand her business while providing free community days for individuals in need.

“Thank you for recognizing me as a true change maker; it means more to me than you know,” Perkins says.

Managed by the Citi Trends CitiCares Council, which oversees change initiatives for the company’s customers and employees, the Black History Makers program increases awareness of Black-owned businesses and recognizes entrepreneurs positively impacting their communities.

“This year marks a special milestone — five years of recognizing and supporting Black entrepreneurs through our Black History Makers program,” says Katrina George, vice president of human resources. “We continue to be inspired by the talent, drive, and creativity of each applicant.”