Highmark and its Employees Donate $161,686 for Haiti Disaster Relief Efforts

PITTSBURGH, March 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly two months ago, the world was shocked when Haiti was struck by a massive earthquake that left the island devastated and in need of aid from around the world. Since then, more than 1,430 Highmark Inc. employees have donated $80,843 to support disaster relief efforts for the nation, matched dollar-for-dollar by the company for a total of $161,686.

"As soon as news of the tragedy broke, our employees immediately began looking for ways to help," said Evan Frazier, senior vice president of community affairs. "They have never been shy when it comes to helping others in need, no matter where they are, and this is just another example."

One department at Highmark went above and beyond by creating an internal competition to raise support funds. The "Hearts for Haiti" campaign encouraged employees to purchase a paper heart for $1 that would have a name or message written on it and then put on display throughout the department. During a two-week period, "Hearts for Haiti" raised more than $1,000.

"'Hearts for Haiti' was a great way to raise money," said Sandy Godich, member service representative for Highmark's senior markets division. "Not only was it a friendly competition and an opportunity to support a worthy cause, it was also a morale booster and fun to participate."

Employees from Highmark, along with its subsidiary and affiliate companies, made contributions through a secure Web site that was launched in partnership with the American Red Cross. The site will remain active and has been expanded to allow employees to contribute to relief projects happening globally.

About Highmark Inc.

As one of the leading health insurers in Pennsylvania, Highmark Inc.'s mission is to provide access to affordable, quality health care enabling individuals to live longer, healthier lives. Based in Pittsburgh, Highmark serves 4.8 million people through the company's health care benefits business. Highmark contributes millions of dollars to help keep quality health care programs affordable and to support community-based programs that work to improve people's health. Highmark exerts an enormous economic impact throughout Pennsylvania. A recent study states that Highmark's positive impact exceeded $2.5 billion. The company provides the resources to give its members a greater hand in their health. Highmark Inc. is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.

SOURCE Highmark Inc.