The Winter Drive at Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center supports so many of our families—not just during the holiday season, but all year long. This initiative reflects the power of community and the importance of coming together to support families who may need a little extra care.
From our Rosewood school-age program in Cheektowaga to our Fredonia campus, donations come from an incredible network of families, staff, and generous sponsors who step up during a season when giving is needed most. Many of these supporters have continued their generosity year after year.
One such long-standing supporter is Tops Friendly Markets. Since 2008, Tops has generously provided BHSC families with food and essential household items. Their support over the past 17 years has offered hope, stability, and a sense of security—especially during the holidays, but extending far beyond them.
To thank Tops for their continued partnership, Dan Quartley, Head of Social Work, and Joe Cozzo, President & CEO of BHSC, visited Tops’ Corporate Headquarters in Cheektowaga to meet with Andrew Brocato, Head of Community Relations. During the visit, as a token of our gratitude, we recognized Tops’ commitment to supporting nonprofits like BHSC and acknowledging the meaningful impact they’ve made on our families.
We are deeply thankful for the unwavering support of our community partners. Their generosity extends far beyond physical donations, it creates lasting impact.
Danielle Gaulin, a social worker at our Sweet Home site, shares:
“We are so grateful to have supportive families who want to give to the Holiday Drive. I think the Holiday Drive alleviates stress that some families may face during the holidays.”
A meaningful moment for her happened during her first year organizing the Holiday Drive at Sweet Home, Danielle was even able to locate and arrange delivery of a slightly used washer and dryer for a family in need.
Margaret O’Shea, who has just begun her journey at BHSC, adds:
“Families are always incredibly grateful for the support. What excites me most about this time of year is the families, talking about their progress and being able to provide that though the services we offer.”
From toys to essential household items for our young learners and patients, BHSC staff work tirelessly—often filling their trunks to the brim in December—to ensure families feel supported. These efforts bring extra cheer and help ease the added pressure many families experience during the holidays.
We are incredibly thankful for the generosity of our community and supporters. Their kindness exemplifies who we are at BHSC and reflects the heart of our mission: to provide children, patients, and families with excellent care and compassion—not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.
To see a firsthand look of our winter drive through a social worker’s perspective, click here to see what Margaret O’Shea has to say about her experience.
