Submitted photo: Clinch Memorial Hospital recently received a $35,000 donation from ATC Broadband (also known as Alma Telecom) through the Georgia HEART Rural Hospital Tax Credit. A check was presented to CMH in January for the 2022 Tax Credit, and ATC plans to contribute again in 2023.

HOMERVILLE, Ga. —  ATC Broadband recently presented Clinch Memorial Hospital with a $35,000 check, which will aid in several ongoing capital projects.

ATC Broadband contributed to CMH through the Georgia Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program. This program was created in 2016 due to the increasing number of rural hospital closures since 2008. Many rural hospitals have faced significant financial challenges and cuts in healthcare reimbursements. As a result, the Georgia General Assembly launched this program to assist these hospitals in their growth and expand healthcare services during economic hardship.

ATC Broadband was one of the 75 Georgia taxpayers in 2022 to redirect their Georgia income tax liability to help support CMH. The organization has already pledged a second contribution in 2023.

“We are continually amazed at the generosity of our community partners,” said Clinch Memorial CEO, Angela Ammons. “Organizations like ATC Broadband are making a significant impact on the enhancement and growth of healthcare in our community. Because of their generosity, we can continue to implement needed services and technology to better serve our patient base. On behalf of everyone at CMH, we are grateful for this generous gift from ATC Broadband and are proud to work with such an amazing team.”

The check was presented to Ammons by Steven Paul, Director of Business Development, and Briana Taylor, Director of Marketing at ATC Broadband.

“ATC recognizes and appreciates the importance of first-class health care in rural areas, and we are proud to not only provide reliable broadband to Clinch Memorial, but this financial assistance as well,” said Teddy Solomon, CEO of ATC Broadband.

Through HEART, Georgia taxpayers can make contributions in exchange for a 100% state income tax credit, up to specified limits, to qualified rural hospitals of their choice. “C” Corporations and Pass-Through Entity business owners who participate may also qualify for an additional federal business expense deduction. Essentially, individuals and businesses have the unique opportunity to pay their state income taxes – an expenditure they are required to make anyway – through contributing to rural hospitals. Georgia taxpayers who are interested in participating in the HEART program are encouraged to visit www.georgiaheart.org to learn more.