Taking advantage of the statewide rural hospital tax credit program, referred to as “Georgia HEART,” First National bank has contributed $40,000 to Memorial Hospital and Manor.  Memorial Hospital and Manor will use the contribution to offset indigent care costs, reduce debt, purchase software and equipment, and make much needed information technology upgrades.

First National Bank President, Brad Barber said the bank and its board members realize the importance of Memorial Hospital and Manor to the community and surrounding region. “We are honored to be able to participate and support our local hospital. Thank you to Memorial Hospital and Manor, the medical staff, the hospital authority and its employees for allowing us to become partners.”

Lawmakers enacted the Georgia HEART tax credit program to encourage taxpayers throughout Georgia to learn more about the financial and other challenges rural hospitals face and to contribute to improve their financial condition and patient offerings.

In 2018, the Governor signed legislation that increases the tax credit percentage for contributions to qualified rural hospitals from 90% to 100%, making this even more attractive to companies considering a philanthropic gift to their local rural hospital. A “C” Corporation or trust shall be allowed a 100% Georgia income tax credit for contributions to rural hospitals equal to the amount of the contribution, or 75 percent of the corporation’s or trust’s income tax liability, whichever is less.

“On behalf of Memorial Hospital and Manor, I want to express my sincere gratitude to First National Bank for this gift,” said Lauren Harrell, Community Development Director.   “Once again, FNB has shown its commitment to Bainbridge and the SWGA community, and this gift will truly make a difference by helping us better serve our patients, and improving the quality of life for our entire service area.”

Currently, 58 rural hospitals are eligible to receive these tax credit-eligible contributions from individuals and businesses across the state. Memorial Hospital and Manor participates in the Georgia HEART program, which assists with the marketing and administration of the rural hospital organization expense tax credit. Together, the hospital and Georgia HEART are Helping to Enhance Access to Rural Treatment.

Georgia HEART is partnering with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Hospital Association to maximize the financial and non-financial impact of philanthropic investments in rural hospitals by Georgia businesses.

For information about contributing for a rural hospital organization expense tax credit and making an impact on our local community, please visit the Georgia HEART website at www.georgiaheart.org or contact Lauren Harrell at laurenh@mh-m.org