St. Benedict's begins annual bed sponsorship campaign

St. Benedict's Homeless Shelter, which aids individuals experiencing homelessness on a temporary basis in Owensboro, is once again seeking bed sponsorships to help fund the shelter's upcoming season. Members of the community are encouraged to donate $500 for a bed sponsorship for the organization.

"Years ago we calculated the amount of money that the shelter spends to house one individual for a full year, and that figure was close to $500," said Harry Pedigo, the shelter's executive director. "Of course, that number has probably increased since then, but we still suggest a $500 donation just because we find that sum to be relatively affordable for individuals who wish to donate to us."

Pedigo said that that figure includes housing a resident, providing laundry and hygiene services such as showers, case management services and even assistance to provide a client with more long-term housing solutions.

According to a press release from the shelter, St. Benedict's Homeless Shelter is "committed to serving all individuals, regardless of background or beliefs."

Pedigo said that the shelter relies heavily on the bed sponsorship campaign in order to be able to serve as many clients as possible.

"This is our biggest fundraiser of the year. We're able to generate about 60% of our operating budget just from this sponsorship campaign," he said.

Pedigo said that close to 90% of funding for the shelter's almost $750,000 yearly budget comes from community partnerships and sponsorships.

Donors to the bed sponsorship campaign will have their names placed on a plaque that is displayed at the shelter.

"Our community is imperative and our greatest asset, making our success and mission first class. We could not make the impact that we do without each donor, volunteer and partner agency," Pedigo said.

Pedigo stressed the importance of having a good reception for this year's campaign leading into 2025, the year that celebrates the shelter's 20th anniversary.

"Together, we can make our 20th-anniversary year full of hope, healing and transformation for our community," he said.

Pedigo also said that if $500 is too much of an investment, but a community member still wishes to help with the shelter's operating costs, a donation in any amount is also encouraged.

"Contributions aren't limited to only $500," he explained. "People can sponsor more than one bed or they are welcome to send us whatever they can afford. We like to be flexible so that anyone who wants to help the shelter operate is able to do so."

Pedigo said that there are three ways to donate to the campaign, online via the shelter's website at stbenedictsowensboro.org , by mailing a check to St. Benedict's Homeless Shelter, 1001 West Seventh St., Owensboro, KY 42303 or by stopping by the shelter facility at 1001 West Seventh Street.

"We also encourage members of the community to stop by, take a tour of the facility and see what all we have to offer the community," he said.