MADISON, Ala. — Local nonprofit Free 2 Teach announced that they received a $150,000 donation from Meta today.
Over the last 14 years, the nonprofit has given out almost 14 million resources to teachers in 88 public schools across Madison County. This investment will support the year-round free store as they provide items such as copy paper, pencils, STEM lesson kits and more.
By providing these supplies to teachers at no cost to teachers, Free 2 Teach impacts over 36,000 children per year. Ultimately the organization seeks to remove any financial barriers faced by teachers or families, elevating the playing field and increasing the capacity for strong student outcomes.
At today's donation ceremony, the Meta Checkout Center was unveiled, highlighting their commitment to public education in Madison County.
“At Meta, we understand the unique and critical role teachers play in the life of children in our public schools,” shared Henry Thornton, Meta’s Community Development Regional Manager. “We are proud to continue investing in the long-term vitality of public education in Madison County, home to our Huntsville Data Center, and support the work of Free 2 Teach, an organization that meets the practical needs of teachers and students and goes above and beyond to bring together the wider community to make an impact.”
Since Meta broke ground in Huntsville in 2018, community involvement has been one of its top priorities. Over the last six years, Meta has given over $4 million in direct funding to area schools and nonprofits, while it has continued to expand its Huntsville Data Center and employ hundreds in the area.
“This historic gift is not only an investment in our organization but in our entire community,” shares Alison Kling, Free 2 Teach CEO. “It signals the commitment of Meta to education and to our focused model at Free 2 Teach that to reach children, we must reach their teachers. This gift will strengthen our efforts to achieve both equity and excellence in our public school classrooms. I, along with the teachers we serve and the entire Free 2 Teach family of staff, volunteers, and supporters, am incredibly thankful and immensely grateful.”
To learn more about Free 2 Teach and their work, click here.