How It Started

Started in 2006 after a conversation Founder of the organization, Thomas DeLorenzo, had with a Rabbi friend over coffee at Starbucks one afternoon, SwagForGood.org was born out of the challenge to create a mitzfah.  Sitting at his desk the next day, DeLorenzo took on the challenge and come up with what he thought was just a simple idea — to give goody bags to those that really need them, as opposed to celebrities that can actually afford the products.  DeLorenzo sent out an email to his PR contacts and had hoped for 5 products per resident.  Instead, within just an hour the email created 10 products per resident.  The next day, the New York times called and wanted to honor DeLorenzo for his creativity and passion.  DeLorenzo asked how they had heard of the project — the reporter simply responded “the email is making the rounds in NYC”.  Apparently the project took on a life of its own.  In 2006, DeLorenzo was named Unsung Hero of the Year for his work with HIV/AIDS.