The Missouri K-12 tax-credit scholarship program, MOScholars, has received significant donations from various large donors including Fortune 500 companies and prominent individuals. UnitedHealth Group Inc. has been the largest donor since 2023, with a total donation of $5.5 million. Other notable donors include Lamar Hunt Jr. and his wife Rita Hunt, the founding family of the Kansas City Chiefs, who have pledged $1.3 million in tax credits over the past two years.
MOScholars allows taxpayers to contribute to educational assistance organizations to fund scholarships for private, parochial, and homeschooled students. State Treasurer Vivek Malek has reported a promising start to this year’s donations, with $5 million in tax credits already reserved. Last year saw a total of $16.6 million in donations, with significant contributions from political mega donors, national corporations, and individuals.
Notable donors in 2023 also included Rex and Jeanne Sinquefield, David Steward, Charter Communications, and Hobby Lobby Stores, among others. The focus of fundraising has been on both individuals and corporations, with efforts to increase awareness and participation in the program. State Rep. Phil Christofanelli, the sponsor of the bill that created MOScholars, highlighted outreach to corporations through accountant associations.
Overall, MOScholars has seen a steady increase in donations and support, with the program aiming to provide more opportunities for students to access private education through tax-credit scholarships. The State Treasurer’s office remains optimistic about the future growth and impact of the program.
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