Representatives from Joplin's Sam's Club and Columbia-based Heart of Missouri United Way presented a check for $200,000 on June 23 to the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Business Recovery Fund.
According to Kirstie Smith, JACC communications director, the funds will be used to leverage support and services for existing small businesses impacted by the May 22nd tornado. The JACC Foundation Business Recovery Fund is a long-term recovery fund that began accepting donations four days after the tornado adversely affected more than 400 businesses and resulted in the loss of more than 4,500 jobs, according to a JACC news release.
"Sam's Club is honored to be a part of this community and we are committed to helping the rebuilding efforts," said Susan Koehler, senior manager of community involvement for Sam's Club. "We are not just a member of the Joplin business community, we are also your neighbors and friends."
In the release, Timothy Rich, executive director for Heart of Missouri United Way, said, "The tornado in Joplin on May 22 has affected us all. United Way depends upon our business partners and we are proud and grateful to be able to assist Joplin business recovery in this way."
The JACC Foundation Business Recovery Fund is a nonprofit charitable foundation. To submit donations online, visit
www.joplincc.com.[[In-content Ad]]