Article by Alex Leroux @DetroitRedWings / DetroitRedWings.com
January 26, 2024
New Year, New Program
At the start of 2024, Donte Byrd and Areona Evans didn’t just welcome a new baby, but they also became a part of a unique new program launched by the Detroit Red Wings, Trinity Health Michigan, and the benefits?tc_mcid=se_Branded_MESP_MESP&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=34f9c8553a4c1a52a8f5adfd28439cca&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Branded&utm_term=MESP&utm_content=MESP”>Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP).
A New Arrival
Baby Arielle made her grand entrance just 34 seconds into 2024 on New Year’s Day at Trinity Health Oakland hospital, weighing in at five pounds, 10 ounces. Born more than four weeks early, Arielle was the first baby born at the birth center in the new year.
“It was such an amazing feeling, just watching the whole process and being in the room,” said Byrd, a first-time father. “The doctors were awesome and so patient. They took us through every step that was needed, and it was awesome. It’s a day we’ll never forget.”
College Fund Surprise
After Arielle’s arrival, Byrd and Evans were surprised to learn they were able to get her college fund started earlier than they expected. Arielle was gifted $529 toward a 529 Savings Plan on behalf of MESP through the new “Wings Welcome” program. As the first baby born at Trinity Health Oakland in 2024, Arielle was chosen as MESP’s first recipient.
Progressive 529 Plans
Michigan taxpayers receive triple tax benefits with MESP. A state income tax deduction on contributions, tax-deferred growth on earnings, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified higher education expenses. MESP can be used at any eligible college, university, or trade school for a variety of qualified expenses. To learn more about the Michigan Education Savings Program, its benefits, and investment objectives, you can read the Program Description at MIsaves.com.
A Generous Gift
Byrd expressed gratitude for the $529 gift for his new daughter’s college savings fund. “This $529 from MESP and the Red Wings gave us a good head start on preparing for her future and we’re forever grateful for that generosity.”
A Chance for Other Parents
Throughout 2024, parents at participating birth centers will receive a swaddle blanket on behalf of the Red Wings, MESP, and Trinity Health Michigan. Parents are encouraged to take a photo of their newborn swaddled in the blanket for a chance to receive MESP’s $529 contribution toward a new college savings fund. Learn more here.