Swedish Match, a U.S. affiliate of Philip Morris International (PMI), is donating $25,000 to the Daniel Pitino Shelter in Owensboro as part of its Giving Tuesday Community Leadership initiative.
A company release said the funds will help the shelter continue its mission of breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing emergency, transitional, and permanent housing for those in need.
The donation is part of a broader effort by PMI and Swedish Match to support six communities where they operate. J.B. Simko, Vice President and Chief Civil Society/Underage Prevention Officer for PMI U.S., said the company encouraged employees to match the donation and inspired others in the community to contribute.
“This commitment reflects the longstanding dedication Swedish Match has to Owensboro,” Simko said. “While we’ve pledged $25,000, we hope this match inspires additional contributions, ensuring the shelter can continue its impactful work.”
Simko added that the company’s Giving Tuesday efforts are part of a larger mission to be good corporate citizens in the communities it calls home.
“This isn’t just about a single day or one donation,” he said. “It’s about creating meaningful, sustainable change and empowering our local employees to make a difference where they live and work.”
The timing of the donation is particularly meaningful for the Daniel Pitino Shelter, which relies on donations to provide its services. Executive Director Harry Pedigo expressed gratitude for the support.
“This donation tells us we’re doing something right,” Pedigo said. “It recognizes the hard work of our staff, the progress of our clients, and the community’s faith in what we do. But we rely on around $12,000 to $15,000 weekly to stay operational, so we encourage others to follow this example and continue giving.”
The shelter is also running its “Fund-A-Family” campaign, inviting businesses and individuals to sponsor families in need during the holiday season.
The donation comes as Swedish Match and PMI expand their community efforts, including honoring U.S. veterans through a partnership with Wreaths Across America. Employees can dedicate wreaths free of charge to fallen service members, and they will participate in wreath-laying ceremonies across the country on December 14, including one in Owensboro.
Pedigo emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting that needs at the shelter are ongoing.
Visit the Daniel Pitino Shelter’s website here for more information on how to support it or participate in its campaigns.
