Coastal Hardware & Building Supply is investing in local health care with a $25,000 contribution to the Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus through the Georgia HEART (Helping Enhance Access to Rural Treatment) Hospital Program.

The Georgia HEART program allows Georgia taxpayers to direct their state income tax dollars to qualified rural hospitals and receive a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit. Individuals and businesses can participate, giving taxpayers an opportunity to decide how their tax dollars make an impact in their community.

“Upon learning about the Georgia HEART program, we felt it was a great opportunity to invest in the health and well-being of our local community,” says Jason Counts of Coastal Hardware & Building Supply. “It was another meaningful way for Coastal Hardware to continue supporting programs and initiatives that benefit our area.”

Counts says investing in local health care strengthens the entire community.

“When residents have access to high-quality health care close to home, they’re spared the time, expense and inconvenience of traveling for care,” he says. “Supporting local health care also helps create a healthier, stronger community, which benefits everyone — including local businesses.”

Established by the Georgia General Assembly in 2016, the Georgia HEART program was created to increase funding for rural hospitals across the state. The program allows individuals and businesses to redirect a portion of their Georgia income tax liability to a qualified rural hospital of their choice, rather than paying it directly to the state. In return, participants receive a 100% Georgia income tax credit, subject to program limits. C-corporations and pass-through entity owners may also qualify for an additional federal business expense deduction.

“We deeply appreciate Coastal Hardware’s generous support and our community’s participation in Georgia HEART,” says Christy Jordan, president and CEO, Southeast Georgia Health System. “These contributions have been instrumental in helping us enhance our facilities and expand services, allowing us to provide the highest quality care for our patients.”

Jordan notes that previous Georgia HEART contributions have helped fund several significant improvements at the Camden Campus, including the addition of a Wound Care Center, 3D mammography technology and a robotic knee replacement system. Funds received in 2026 will be used to enhance imaging and cardiology services on the Camden Campus.

Georgia taxpayers interested in participating in the 2026 Georgia HEART program are encouraged to visit georgiaheart.org to learn more and submit an online tax credit application.