Michael Jordan Opens First of 2 Medical Clinics in Charlotte

Hornets owner Michael Jordan announced the donation of $7.2 million for two medical clinics in Charlotte, during an emotional ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday at the first facility.

Jordan, 56, says the philanthropic gift is for a community “that’s supported me over the years, when I was playing the game of basketball to now where I’m a part of this community.”

The clinics are expected to serve 35,000 patients in some of the city’s poorest neighborhoods over the next five years.

Per The Charlotte Observer:

“I’ve gone off and made my life in Illinois and other places,” Jordan said, referring to his NBA Hall of Fame years with the Chicago Bulls. “But I know where it all begins.”

“And I don’t need my mother to constantly remind me about that,” Jordan said as the crowd laughed. “I can only give in gratitude for what I can never repay.”

Over the years, Jordan and the Hornets also have contributed nearly $750,000 to Novant Health Community Care Cruiser, which provides immunizations to under-served youth, according the team’s site. Other donations have gone to literacy efforts in low-income Charlotte neighborhoods.

“It’s not the financials but (it’s) from the heart — a passion from what this city, this state has given back to me,” Jordan said Thursday. “I can never repay what you have given to me. But this is a start.”

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