Owensboro, Ky. Nov. 22, 2005 Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE:KMB) today announced a cash contribution of $20,000 to support relief efforts in the wake of the Southern Indiana tornadoes. As a leading employer in the tri-state area, with approximately 400 employees, Kimberly-Clark is directing the donation to Habitat of Evansville's "Operation Home Again" program.
Additionally, Kimberly-Clark through its Business-to-Business group is providing Scott bathroom tissue and folded towel products to residents in the region. Kimberly-Clark employees will also support the reconstruction efforts by volunteering their time in the rebuilding process early next year.
"Our deepest condolences go out to the people who suffered the wrath of the recent tornadoes," said Rae Hill, Kimberly-Clark Mill Manager in Owensboro. "All of us at Kimberly-Clark hope that our donations and volunteer efforts will provide some comfort to meet the longer term needs for families as we rebuild our communities."
The "Operation Home Again" program was established by Habitat of Evansville, a top 40 affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, to address the long-term housing needs of those affected by the November 6 tornado.
"The financial contribution and support of Kimberly-Clark for Habitat of Evansville's 'Operation Home Again' will help make a lasting difference in the lives of those families affected by the devastating tornado," said Matt Betram, Executive Director, of Habitat of Evansville. "Having a safe and decent home will provide stability for these families on their road to recovery."
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark and its well-known global brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 150 countries. Every day, 1.3 billion people--nearly a quarter of the world's population--trust K-C brands and the solutions they provide to enhance their health, hygiene and well-being. With brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend, Kimberly-Clark holds the No. 1 or No. 2 share position in more than 80 countries. To keep up with the latest K-C news and to learn more about the company's 133-year history of innovation, visit www.kimberly-clark.com.
About Habitat of Evansville
Habitat of Evansville is an ecumenical Christian housing ministry that completed its first house in 1984. It seeks to eliminate poverty housing by building modest, safe and affordable houses for low-income families. These homes are sold at no profit with a 25-year, zero interest mortgage provided by Habitat of Evansville.
Using the sweat equity of the partner families, volunteer labor, donated materials and the financial contributions of area churches, businesses, organizations and individuals, costs are kept as low as possible. The average Habitat of Evansville house is sold for $54,000 with a mortgage of $260 per month, including escrow for taxes and insurance. Mortgage payments from partner families are placed in the Fund for Humanity, which helps fund additional houses for low-income families.
Since 1984, Habitat of Evansville has been an example of determination and incredible community support. More than 18,000 individuals have volunteered to work on the 282 Habitat houses that have been completed to date in Evansville. Sponsorship of a Habitat house is $50,000.