Piedmont Augusta Commits $2M to 44 Nonprofits in Four-County Region

Piedmont Augusta plans to give $2 million to 44 nonprofits in 2026. These groups serve Richmond, Columbia, McDuffie, and Aiken counties. Last year, the hospital distributed nearly $2 million to 32 nonprofits.

"An important component in the decision by University Health Care System to join the Piedmont team was our shared commitment to investing in prevention, population health and access to care," said Gene McManus, chairman of the board, according to WRDW.

Lily Henson leads Piedmont's Augusta Hub as CEO. She explained how these donations connect with what the hospital stands for. "While we are known for our exceptional clinical outcomes, the impact Piedmont makes in our communities is core to who we are and what we do," said Henson. "We are committed to supporting our community partners in those efforts."

The 44 groups will receive money for programs that help people in the area. Some focus on health, like Christ Community Health Services, Mental Health America of Greater Augusta, and Cancer Support Services. Other groups, like Family Promise of Augusta, Augusta/CSRA Habitat for Humanity, and Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center, work on housing and helping families.

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Augusta and Challenge Preparatory Academy were also chosen. Organizations that fight hunger, such as Manna and Good Neighbors Ministries, will also get support.

The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History received funding. So did Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta and the Sexual Assault Response Center. Church-based and community groups, like 143 Ministries, GAP Ministries, and Bridge Builder Communities, got grants as well.

McManus said they picked groups that work across several counties, not just one town or city.