The United Way of the Flint Hills has received a $64,772.29 from Simmons Pet Food’s 2025 employee giving campaign, marking the third consecutive year of major growth.
This year’s total represents a significant jump from the $51,188.90 raised in 2024 and nearly triple the $22,562.44 contributed in 2023. While Simmons Pet Food has consistently provided a $10,000 corporate donation each year, the overwhelming majority of this increase is the result of employee participation.
“We want to be very clear — this remarkable growth has been driven by the Simmons team members themselves,” said Daphne Reed Mertens, Executive Director of United Way of the Flint Hills. “Their employees have stepped up in an incredible way year after year, and this total reflects hundreds of individuals choosing to help their neighbors. That kind of generosity is what strengthens entire communities.”
The check was presented this week at the Emporia plant, where excitement and pride could be felt among employees and leadership alike.
"As most of you know, times are tough right now, and yet our team members stepped up for the Emporia community. They gave what they could, and it is truly appreciated. I am humbled by the response and so blessed to be Simmons Strong and Emporia Proud,” says Brenda Coburn, Complex Administrative Assistant.
Mertens emphasized the lasting impact of gifts like these. “A donation of this size means families will stay in their homes, seniors will have access to food, children will have the support they need to thrive, and working households won’t have to choose between basic necessities,” she said. “This isn’t just a dollar amount, it’s real stability for real people.”
United Way of the Flint Hills continues to work with partners across its eight-county region to ensure that donations support the greatest areas of need, including food access, housing stability, emergency assistance, and community support services.
More information about United Way’s work and the ongoing fundraising campaign can be found at unitedwayflinthills.org or on the United Way of the Flint Hills Facebook page.
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