Piedmont Macon employees put on their favorite pair of blue jeans over the past year to raise more than $6,600 for various charitable organizations across Middle Georgia.

The money was collected from employees at both Piedmont Macon Medical Center and Piedmont Macon North Hospital as part of the Blue Jeans for a Cause fundraiser. To participate, employees pay a small amount of money for the opportunity to wear blue jeans to work on Fridays.

In turn, the money collected each month is given to a midstate charity, which benefits from the unexpected boost. Piedmont Macon’s employee participation in the fundraiser is much more than a comfortable fashion choice. It has become a symbol of compassion and generosity in the Middle Georgia community.

Mother’s Nest, a nonprofit offering vital assistance to low-income mothers, was one of the recipients of a portion of the $6,657 raised at Piedmont Macon from July 2023 to June 2024.

“We were able to purchase five double strollers for Mother’s Nest moms with twins, to participate in our Stroller Strut … to raise awareness for maternal health,” said Sabrina Friday, founder and executive director of Mother’s Nest. “We are extremely grateful for Piedmont’s generosity and support for the underprivileged community.”

Other nonprofit groups receiving money from the fundraiser this past year include:

• Crisis Line and Safe House of Middle Georgia, which provides victims of domestic violence with a safe haven and the support they need to rebuild their lives.

• Jo’s Help, a nonprofit that ensures cancer patients have access to transportation and food during one of the most challenging times of their lives.

• The Salvation Army of Central Georgia’s Angel Tree Program, which solicits Christmas gifts for children who, without the Salvation Army, might go without on Christmas morning.

• King-Danforth Boys & Girls Club, an after-school organization that provides young people with adult mentors, sports opportunities and other activities.

Burdell-Hunt Elementary School, the Backpack Ministry at Forest Hills Church, United Way of Central Georgia, the Brookdale Resource Center and the Middle Georgia Food Bank also received donations from the fundraiser.

Amanda Greechan, manager of Community Relations at Piedmont Macon, said that because of Piedmont employees’ generosity, families are stronger, children are happier and those in need are finding comfort and support.

“The contributions have touched countless lives, spreading hope and kindness throughout our community,” Greechan said. “Our employees’ dedication is making a real difference, one life at a time.”