Hyundai Invests in Reforestation, Housing, and Stem Education in Coastal Georgia

Hyundai Motor America announced new partnerships with Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity and Coastal Bryan Tree Foundation, two local nonprofits in the Savannah, Georgia, area. Hyundai also implemented its hydrogen STEM program for middle schools in Effingham County, raising awareness about alternative energy sources.

With the new partnerships and school-based programs, Hyundai underscores its investment in the region, which is home to Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, currently being built in Bryan County.

“Hyundai is proud to continue our investment into the Georgia community as we await the opening of Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America,” said Brandon Ramirez, director of corporate social responsibility and external relations Hyundai Motor America. “Community support and sustainability are key pillars to our corporate social responsibility initiative. These partnerships emphasise our commitment to advancing our vision of Progress for Humanity and creating a more sustainable future for all.”  

The Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity is committed to creating affordable homeownership for Chatham County, Georgia families. As the organisation prepares to break ground on two properties in September, the donation will assist in the development cost of preparing one of these sites for the masonry work to start framing. This donation is part of Hyundai’s corporate social responsibility initiative, Hyundai Hope, which seeks to uplift children and families by fostering positive community growth.

“It is an honour to see companies reinvest in the communities they work in,” said Zerik Samples, CEO of Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity. “We are thrilled about this new partnership and grateful for Hyundai’s commitment to improving the well-being of society. We will build strength, stability, and self-reliance together through shelter.”

The Coastal Bryan Tree Foundation’s mission is to plant, promote, and protect trees, especially live oaks, the state tree of Georgia. The donation will help replant trees within the Coastal Bryan County region, specifically species native to the region.

“The Coastal Bryan Tree Foundation has been planting a legacy of canopy trees in Richmond Hill and South Bryan County for the last twenty-three years, and most recently, we have extended our efforts into North Bryan County,” said Jackie Montesino, president of Coastal Bryan Tree Foundation. “Protecting and promoting our community’s tree canopy allows us to maintain the beauty and character of Bryan County, which residents hold near and dear to their hearts. I extend our sincerest gratitude towards Hyundai, whose donation will allow us to continue our efforts.”

The Hyundai Hydrogen STEM Program has been shared with over 800 students throughout California and Georgia, and it retook place this year at schools in Effingham County, Georgia. Students built hydrogen fuel-cell-powered miniature-model vehicles and raced them on a Hyundai racetrack.