Pontiac Community Foundation Eliminates $5.5 Million in Medical Debt

On February 10, 2021, the Pontiac Community Foundation (PCF), in partnership with Kirk in the Hills, eliminated $5.5 million in medical debt for residents across Oakland County—bringing real relief and a fresh start to thousands of families.

Through a partnership with RIP Medical Debt, the organizations were able to purchase this debt for just $29,520 and forgive it entirely. In total, 5,129 individuals benefited from this effort, with nearly 45% of recipients living in Pontiac. The average amount forgiven was just under $1,000 per person.

The initiative was intentionally focused on Pontiac, where residents face higher levels of medical debt and broader health disparities—particularly within the Black community. Because of the low cost of acquiring the debt, the impact was expanded to reach families across the county.

Importantly, this debt forgiveness came with no strings attached and was not taxable, allowing individuals and families to move forward without additional burden.

This effort reflects PCF’s commitment to addressing inequities and taking action to improve the quality of life in Pontiac—meeting both immediate needs and long-term challenges facing the community.