Phoebe Sumter Medical Center has received a $100,000 donation from Synovus Bank to support the construction of a new on-campus childcare facility. The funds were provided through the bank’s Here Matters Donor Advised Fund and presented to the Phoebe Sumter Foundation.
The planned Family Tree Child Development Center will serve hospital employees by providing accessible childcare, which is expected to help with recruitment and retention of staff. Initially, the center will accommodate about 50 children, with potential for future expansion as demand increases.
Katherine Council, Director of the Phoebe Sumter Foundation, stated, “Investing in childcare is investing in our people. This new facility will help ease the burden for parents working in demanding healthcare roles, giving them peace of mind while ensuring we continue to provide excellent care to our community.”
The facility is modeled after an existing program at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany and will be located on Phoebe Sumter’s 40-acre campus. It is scheduled to open in 2027 and will operate under full state certification.
Emory Parker, Synovus Americus Market President, said, “At Synovus, we believe strong communities are built when families thrive. Supporting the Family Tree project is a meaningful way for us to help healthcare professionals balance their careers and their families while also strengthening the local workforce.”
Pam Simmons, Synovus Albany Market President, added: “The Here Matters Fund is about investing in projects that make a lasting difference. We’re proud to partner with Phoebe Sumter to ensure that children and families in our region have the support they need.”
Phoebe Sumter Medical Center leaders indicated they are prepared to hire staff and furnish the center once it is built. The donation from Synovus will be used directly for construction expenses.
Carlyle Walton, President of Phoebe Sumter Medical Center said: “Phoebe Sumter is committed to being more than just a hospital, we are a partner in the lives of our employees and neighbors. We are grateful to Synovus for believing in this mission and for helping us meet a need that will strengthen families and improve the future of healthcare in Sumter County.”
