Free 2 Teach receives largest single gift in its history from Meta

The gift represents a significant investment in Free 2 Teach’s mission to equip teachers as they work to educate and inspire children in 88 public schools across Madison County.  

“This historic gift is not only an investment in our organization but in our entire community,” said 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.”  

At a ceremony Tuesday, the Meta Checkout Center was unveiled, highlighting a visionary 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,” said 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 breaking ground in Huntsville in 2018, Meta has given more than $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.  

The investment will support the year-round free store in providing copy paper, pencils, and paper, STEM lesson kits and resources, specialty art supplies, books, classroom furniture, and more. By providing these supplies to teachers at no cost to teachers, Free 2 Teach impacts more than 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. 

“This powerful partnership between Free 2 Teach and Meta is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together to support and equip our teachers as they make a difference for students in our public schools,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “Meta is ensuring kids have what they need and that families and teachers feel supported.” 

To learn more about Free 2 Teach, visit www.free2teach.org.