The Poarch Band of Creek Indians are once again supporting local organizations, this time with $150,000 in total donations to four area groups.
During a presentation ceremony held Thursday in Poarch, the tribe made donations to: D.W. McMillan Hospital – $25,000; Mennonite Disaster Relief – $50,000; Volunteers of America – $50,000; Hannah Grace Foundation – $25,000.
PCI Tribal Chairman Buford Rolin said being able to financially support local organizations is important to the Poarch Band.
“One of the most important things we can do is give back to the community,” Rolin said. “It is important that we help these organizations. They do so much for so many by helping those in need and improving the lives of people in the community and our state.”
Following the presentation of a $25,000 check to Brewton’s D.W. McMillan Hospital, Administrator Chris Griffen said the donation will be used to upgrade the facility’s mammography equipment.
“Most all rural hospital are currently experiencing significant financial challenges,” Griffen said. “This gift from PCI will enable us to replace our mammography equipment with a new ‘state of the art’ digital mammography machine. We are truly thankful for PCI’s generosity and for their willingness to be a healthcare partner with us, as we work to improve our technology and ultimately the quality of care for our patients. The digital mammography equipment will be the centerpiece of our planned renovated Women’s Center here at the hospital.”
Gehman said supporting local hospitals is a plus for all members of Escambia County.
“Our hospitals play a critical role in our community,” Gehman said. “The services you provide are so important.”
This latest round of donations brings PCI’s total financial gifts to over $650,000 in just the last month.
Tribal Secretary David Gehman said the decision to donate to Volunteers of America, the Hannah Grace Foundation and the Mennonite Disaster Relief group was one the tribe came to easily.
“It’s been our honor to work with Volunteers of America and Mennonite Disaster Relief,” Gehman said. “They step in at a time when people need help the most. Fortunately, through these donations, we are able to step in and help them.”