MOULTRIE — Ameris Bank has once again demonstrated its commitment to rural healthcare by presenting Colquitt Regional Medical Center with a $500,000 donation. This contribution is part of the bank’s ongoing support through the Georgia HEART rural hospital tax credit program.

The funds will be used to enhance healthcare services and aid in the future expansion of Colquitt Regional, which includes the construction of a four-floor medical tower, the hospital said in a press release. This expansion will increase patient bed capacity from 99 to 155, allowing for enhanced services in surgery and obstetrics and providing greater access to healthcare for the community.

“We are deeply grateful for Ameris Bank’s continued generosity and support of our health system,” said Colquitt Regional President and CEO Jim Matney. “Their contributions have had a lasting impact on our medical education initiatives and patient care services, helping us train the next generation of healthcare professionals. With their support, we can also move forward with our expansion plans to better serve our growing community.”

Ameris Bank’s donation is made possible through the Georgia HEART program, which allows taxpayers to redirect their state income tax liability to support rural hospitals. Since the program’s inception, Ameris Bank has been a dedicated partner in ensuring Colquitt Regional can continue to offer cutting-edge medical care and expand essential services.

“We are honored to support Colquitt Regional once again through the Georgia HEART program,” said Ameris Bank CEO H. Palmer Proctor Jr. “This program is a vital resource for rural hospitals, and we remain committed to strengthening the communities we serve by helping to improve access to quality healthcare.”

Over the years, Ameris Bank’s tax credit contributions have served numerous hospital advancements, including the establishment of the Edwards Cancer Center, the expansion of oncology services to include radiation therapy, the creation of the inpatient Senior Wellness Unit, and the development of the Ameris Bank Medical Educational Building, which serves as a regional hub for healthcare training and clinical services. Now, their contributions will also help make the planned expansion a reality, ensuring more beds and greater access to medical care for patients in need, the hospital said.

“Our hospital is fortunate to have strong partnerships with organizations like Ameris Bank, whose generosity directly benefits our patients and medical staff,” said Hospital Authority Chairman John Griffin. “Through the Georgia HEART program, we can continue to expand healthcare services and invest in the future of rural medicine.”

For more information on the Georgia Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program, please contact Nicole Gilbert at 229-890-3416.