Highmark employees donate $20,000 and hundreds of gifts to make the season brighter for neighbors in need

Buffalo, N.Y. (December 13, 2023) — Today, as part of its efforts to make the season bright for those in need, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York employees donated $20,000 to four local nonprofits, in addition to collecting more than 200 gifts for community members in need.

“Our employees embody the giving spirt of the holiday season all throughout the year,” said Dr. Michael Edbauer, President, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “Days like today, where the generosity and commitment of our 1,400 local team members shines bright, make me incredibly proud.”

For the second year, as part of its Holiday Helpers fund, Highmark BCBS employees selected four non-profits to each receive a $5,000 donation. Representatives from the following organizations joined employees on-site during their annual holiday luncheon today at its Buffalo headquarters to receive their donation: Buffalo City Mission, Hearts for the Homeless, Mercy Flight, and Camp Good Days and Special Times, Inc.

In addition to the monetary donation, Highmark BCBS employees donated hundreds of gifts for community members, including children and adults, at The Valley Community Association and Terrace View Long Term Care. The health plan’s employees also donated and delivered gifts for 50 members of the Amherst Senior Center last week.

Today’s efforts build on its employees’ long legacy of giving back to the community and aligns with the Highmark Bright Blue Futures program, which encapsulates the company’s grantmaking and employee volunteer efforts throughout its entire footprint, including Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia, in addition to New York.

“It’s an annual holiday tradition at Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield for employees to band together to collect most-needed food and clothing items for adopt-a-family programs, and volunteer their time on special projects, including serving meals, decorating homes, and making blankets for those in need,” added Edbauer.

Highmark BCBS employees collectively volunteered more than 1,600 hours in 2023. These efforts build on the health plan’s corporate giving program, which sees annual investments of more than $7 million in local organizations and initiatives that benefit the greater health of the community.