R-8 and JACS receive $25,000 from Freeman Health System

Freeman Health System presented a $25,000 donation to Joplin Schools to aid in its rebuilding efforts. From left to right are Philip Willcoxon, Joplin Schools Board of Education Member and Ozark Center Chief Executive Officer; Dr. C.J. Huff, Joplin School

Donation to aid in rebuilding Joplin

JOPLIN, Mo. — Freeman Health System presented a donation this week to both Joplin Schools and Joplin Area Catholic Schools. Each school system received $25,000 to help fund its recovery and rebuilding effort following the devastating May 22 storm.

“Each dollar Freeman Health System donated is an investment in Joplin’s future,” said Gary Duncan, Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer. “The success of our community is dependant upon the success of our school systems. Freeman is proud to support our local schools and contribute to Joplin’s rebuilding.”

On July 12, Duncan and several Freeman representatives presented the schools with the $50,000 donation on behalf of Freeman Board of Directors.

"Freeman Health System has been a strong supporter of Joplin Schools long before the tornado, and we are very appreciative of their continued support since the tornado," said Dr. C.J. Huff, Superintendent of Joplin Schools. "We are proud to call Freeman Health System a partner and appreciate their generous donation to the Joplin Schools Tornado Relief Fund."

Nancy Roark, Joplin Area Catholic Schools Business Affairs Director, said the school system will benefit greatly from the generous donation.

“This donation from Freeman Health System is a wonderful example of how our community is pulling together to make sure the education of our youth remains a priority and to rebuild Joplin,” said Roark.

Joplin students are the future of healthcare in this community and beyond, said Duncan. As the largest employer in Joplin, Freeman relies upon the local school systems to supply its three hospitals with qualified employees. This is a need that Joplin schools have always filled with outstanding results.

“Joplin has long been defined by the excellence present within its education systems,” said Duncan. “It is an honor to help ensure that excellence will continue.”