South Florida’s LGBTQ and HIV advocacy communities are mourning the loss of Thomas Pietrogallo, Chief Executive Officer of The Poverello Center. The organization announced his passing in a Facebook post, calling him “a compassionate advocate, visionary, mentor, and friend.”
Under Pietrogallo’s leadership, the nonprofit expanded services supporting more than 3,500 families facing chronic illness and food insecurity across South Florida. Programs included youth “Healthy Fuel Packs,” mobile food pantries, and expanded nutrition education.
Pietrogallo also served on Broward County HIV care initiatives. Hundreds of people reacted to the announcement on Facebook, sharing condolences and remembering Pietrogallo’s impact on the community. Memorial service details are expected at a later date.
