Not everyone in the city of Detroit was able to gather around with their families on Thanksgiving. So, on the Friday after, Chef Maxcel Hardy fought hunger on Orange Friday.
The money comes from the Julia Burke Foundation, the center announced Thursday night.
The California-based organization partners with groups worldwide to supply food and other community needs, and supports education and social justice programs.
The funding will be used for a short-term or bridge housing complex to tackle the city s homelessness, the center said.
The contribution means the center has raised more than $15 million toward its $22 million fundraising goal for the project.
“We are truly humbled by the incredible generosity of the Julia Burke Foundation,” said Father Tim McCabe SJ, executive director of the Pope Francis Center. “Their $7 million contribution shows there is strong support for our efforts to bring an end to chronic homelessness in Detroit.”