#USA #Florida #Fort Myers #UB Community Development #Lee Health

UB Community Development and Lee Health Join Forces

In a significant investment aimed at improving healthcare access in Southwest Florida, UB Community Development, LLC (UBCD) has successfully secured a $6 million allocation from the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program to support Lee Health's new medical facility. This partnership is particularly crucial as the facility will be located in a low-income area of Fort Myers, a region that faces pressing healthcare challenges.

Established in 1916 as a public hospital for Lee County, Lee Health has evolved into one of Florida’s largest not-for-profit public health systems. Currently, it serves over 2 million patients each year and operates multiple healthcare facilities, including four acute care hospitals and a dedicated pediatric hospital. Its mission is to provide comprehensive and efficient healthcare services to the community, particularly to underserved populations.

A New Facility for the Community

The upcoming medical facility will span an impressive 85,000 square feet and will serve as a state-of-the-art medical laboratory and data center. This new center is designed to enhance Lee Health's existing operations by offering comprehensive laboratory processing and testing services. Upon completion, it is projected to serve over 100,000 individuals annually, thereby significantly enhancing healthcare access for locals.

The investment not only boosts healthcare infrastructure but is also expected to create approximately 30 new jobs while retaining 142 existing positions. This job creation is essential for local employment and will contribute to the economic growth of the region. Lee Health’s Chief Operating and Financial Officer, Ben Spence, expressed gratitude for this support, emphasizing that it will allow their organization to better meet the community’s healthcare needs while also providing job opportunities in the area.

Commitment to Serving Underserved Populations

Lee Health is particularly focused on offering healthcare access to underserved individuals, many of whom have historically relied on emergency rooms for their primary care. By providing essential social services and support, the system aims to address the healthcare gaps in this region and improve overall health outcomes.

Alex Jones, President of UB Community Development, remarked on the vital role healthcare plays in community wellbeing. He noted that with the uncertain future facing healthcare providers, UBCD is proud to support Lee Health in this crucial venture. This partnership is a model of how financial institutions can leverage funding to foster community development and improve health access.

UBCD's Role in Community Development

Headquartered in Atmore, Alabama, UB Community Development has a strong track record in facilitating New Markets Tax Credit transactions. The organization is committed to collaborating with various sectors such as healthcare, education, public works, and affordable housing to stimulate growth and development in regional communities across the United States.

As health systems face ongoing challenges, partnerships like this one illustrate the powerful impact of strategic investments. The new Lee Health facility not only signifies a step forward for Fort Myers but serves as an example of how innovative funding solutions can drive meaningful change in underserved areas.

For more information about their work and impact, visit UB Community Development.