Poplar Bluff, MO - In the spirit of giving back during its one-year anniversary, Blaich Family Dentistry made a $1,500 donation to Poplar Bluff Junior High in a return-to-school raffle.

The dental practice, via Facebook, asked people to ‘like’ its page and nominate a school to receive $1,000. On top of that, owner Dr. Eric Blaich pledged to match any additional funds raised up to a certain amount. A total of $250 was generated through crowdfunding. 

The social media post garnered nearly 300 comments, including nominations from public and parochial institutions throughout the region, several of which were schools within the R-I district. Junior High nurse Bailey Hester was responsible for the winning submission, announced on Sunday, Aug. 30, by Blaich’s children: Stavia of Oak Grove and Jace of the Middle School.

Junior High Principal Candace Warren said the money would go in the school's activity fund in lieu of typical door-to-door fundraisers that have been canceled due to the pandemic. Blaich, a repeat supporter of the school system, said he plans to hold the back-to-school fundraiser annually.

Located at 821 W. Pine St., Blaich Family Dentistry was the former practice of Dr. Dan Jackson, who remains an associate of the operation.

Pictured: Dr. Eric Blaich presents PBJHS Principal Candace Warren a $1,500 donation on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at his dental practice.

Photo and article submitted by Tim Krakowiak, Communications/Marketing Director, Poplar Bluff R-I School District