Watch CBS News

Ellen DeGeneres Announces $500,000 Donation To Crumbling School

(CBS) -- A Detroit school in dire need of upgrades and repairs is getting some help from Ellen DeGeneres.

Seen in a video posted to her website, the talk show host thrilled Spain Elementary students and staff with the announcement of "Ellen's biggest most generous giveaway ever!" — a $500,000 donation.

The school has been in the spotlight for its numerous building problems, which the city and the district are working to address, CBS Detroit reports.

"At Spain Elementary School in Detroit, many of the students are poor or homeless. That is not their only obstacle," DeGeneres said. "Almost all of their technology does not work, their entire roof is falling apart, their gym is completely shut down, forcing students to take PE in the hallways. Some of the students actually have to wear coats in the classroom because there is no heat."

The donation is part of the Lowes' Toolbox for Education program.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.