BUFFALO, N.Y. — Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York is donating $300,000 to support those impacted by the shooting at the Tops grocery store in Buffalo.
One of Saturday's mass shooting victims, Katherine Massey, worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield for 40 years before she retired. In her memory, the local health insurer is awarding a grant to "We are Women," a nonprofit organization that Massey co-founded, dedicated to helping inner-city residents.
A statement from Highmark BCBSWNY President Dr. Michael Edbauer says in part, "Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York remains committed to supporting our community through this tragic time, while we honor the lives and legacies of those we lost."
Dr. Edbauer went on to say that this event is particularly close to their hearts and company because Massey was one of the lives lost.
Highmark BCBSWNY is also creating a scholarship fund for a Buffalo Public Schools student, investing in the Buffalo Together Community Response Fund, providing monetary support for mental health services in the Jefferson Avenue community, and continuing to donate and distribute essential items most needed by residents on the East Side.