First Niagara 'springs' into action to raise thousands for Hospice Buffalo

Bouquet sale at area branches reaps big rewards

First Niagara Financial Group Inc. and Hospice Buffalo worked together to welcome spring with the 27^th annual Hospice Buffalo Spring Bouquet Sale.

In the month of March, 31,000 bouquets were sold overall thanks to more than 500 volunteers and 450 companies and schools. First Niagara is proud to have sold 2,164 bouquets, raising more than $19,000.

In Niagara County, the North Tonawanda branch sold 155 bouquets totaling more than $1,200. In Erie County, the Kenmore branch on Sheridan Drive sold 106 bouquets totaling more than $800. Both branches will celebrate their success with a staff pizza party.

"First Niagara believes in empowering our community to 'Do Great Things,' " said FNG Senior Vice President of Retail Markets Management Scott Fisher. "Through this partnership, we hope to help Hospice continue their mission to provide the physical, emotional and spiritual support services patients with serious illnesses need during such a difficult time."

The Hospice Buffalo Spring Bouquet Sale is the largest community-wide fundraiser for the Hospice Foundation.