Middle Georgia – Planters First Bank has announced its donation of $150,000 to support three rural hospitals in Georgia as part of the Georgia HEART Hospital Program. Each recipient—Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele, Taylor Regional Hospital in Hawkinsville, and Dorminy Medical Center in Fitzgerald—will receive $50,000 to enhance their capacity to deliver quality healthcare to the communities they serve.
The Georgia HEART Hospital Program is a vital initiative designed to increase funding for rural hospitals, which are crucial to providing healthcare in underserved areas. Despite their importance, rural hospitals in Georgia face significant financial challenges due to demographic shifts, economic constraints, and changes in the healthcare landscape. Planters First Bank's contribution helps these hospitals continue their mission of serving thousands of Georgians.
Eli Tinsley, CEO of Planters First Bank, shared the bank's commitment to the health of its communities: "At Planters First Bank, we believe that access to quality healthcare is foundational to thriving communities. Supporting Crisp Regional, Taylor Regional, and Dorminy Medical Center allows us to invest in the people and places that make Georgia unique. The Georgia HEART Program provides us with a meaningful way to give back, and we are honored to contribute to these hospitals' vital missions."
Kay Watson, CFO of Planters First Bank, highlighted the program's impact: "Rural hospitals are under increasing financial strain, making programs like Georgia HEART indispensable. At Planters First Bank, we recognize the essential role these institutions play and are committed to supporting their sustainability. Our donation is a testament to our dedication to the health and prosperity of these communities."
Leaders from across Planters First Bank emphasized the local impact of this initiative:
Tim Wynne, Hawkinsville Market President, on Taylor Regional:"Taylor Regional is a cornerstone of our community, and its ability to provide critical healthcare services has never been more important. Planters First Bank’s support through the Georgia HEART Program ensures that Taylor Regional can continue its mission of caring for our residents, and we are proud to be a part of this effort."
Jake Walters, Irwin/Ben Hill Regional President, on Dorminy Medical Center: "The wellbeing of our community relies heavily on access to quality healthcare. Dorminy Medical Center has been a lifeline for many, and this contribution through the Georgia HEART Program ensures that they can continue providing essential services to our region. Planters First Bank is proud to be a part of this initiative that directly impacts the health of our local families."
Sandi Guest, Cordele Branch Manager, on Crisp Regional: "Crisp Regional has been a pillar in our community, providing critical services that so many of us depend on. Planters First Bank's contribution through the Georgia HEART Program ensures that the hospital can continue to offer the care that keeps our families, friends, and neighbors healthy and thriving."
About Planters First Bank:
Planters First Bank, established in 1896, is a community bank with deep roots in Georgia. With branches across Middle Georgia, the bank prides itself on providing personalized financial services and supporting the growth and well-being of the communities it serves.
About Georgia Heart Hospital Program:
The Georgia HEART Hospital Program partners with 50 rural hospitals across the state to provide critical funding through the Georgia Rural Hospital Organization expense tax credit. This initiative supports rural hospitals in enhancing their healthcare delivery and sustaining essential services. For more information, visit Georgia HEART’s FAQ page.