A Florida church raised enough money to pay off more than $7.2 million worth of medical debt for about 6,500 people in five Florida counties.
The Stetson Baptist Church congregation raised more than $150,000 as part of its 53rd Sunday initiative June 30 -- more than three times the goal of $48,000, according to the Florida Baptist Convention.
The church's budget year had 53 weeks and since operating expenses were covered in 52, money raised the additional week went to support a charity that wipes out medical debt and another that helps young children, according to the Florida Baptist Convention.
"To say that we are surprised is an understatement," Pastor Dan Glenn told the Florida Baptist Convention.
About half of the money will go to the charity RIP Medical Debt, where for every dollar donated $100 worth of medical debt is removed. The church is donating $72,000 which will erase $7.2 million of debt. The other money will benefit three foster homes through One More Child.
Recipients, people who are living below the federal poverty level, will be notified by mail.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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