Billionaire MacKenzie Scott Donates $13M To Twin Cities Habitat

ST. PAUL, MN — Habitat for Humanity housing projects across the Twin Cities got a big boost Tuesday after a sizable gift from billionare philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Scott donated $436 million in unrestricted funds to the international organization. Of that, $13 million will go to the Twin Cities Habitat office.

Scott's donation will be used to advance racial equity in housing in Minnesota, Twin Cities Habitat said.

"This transformational gift is a game-changer for Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to advance Black homeownership and turn the tide on Minnesota’s racial disparities," said Chris Coleman, CEO of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, in a statement.

"Philanthropic support is critical to our organization’s innovation and growth, as we work with the community to build a more vibrant, equitable region."

According to Twin Cities Habitat, Minnesota has one of the widest racial disparities in homeownership. About 77 percent of White households owning homes compared to 42 percent of households of color. Approximately 25 percent of Black households own a home in Minnesota.

In December, Twin Cities Habitat committed to addressing these disparities.

In addition to her local Habitat for Humanity donation, Scott also recently donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities.

Following her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Scott's net worth totaled $48 billion, Forbes reported. Scott signed on to the "Giving Pledge," a commitment in which billionaires donate more than half of their wealth.