Spread Kindness Across ROC & BUF!
It’s February in Western New York, which means one thing — well, it’s still winter, but that won’t stop us from finding something to celebrate! It’s a month of love in all of its forms, and it’s also the perfect time to sprinkle some kindness in our communities. Whether you’re enjoying Valentine’s Day with your partner, celebrating your close friends with Galentine’s Day or just want to brighten someone’s day, we have some ideas for spreading love across Buffalo and Rochester all month long!
As the Home team is a group of local women who love where we live, we’re all about giving back to and supporting the places that make us feel at home. Let’s spread some love and kindness, one small gesture at a time!
Mark your calendars: Random Acts of Kindness Day is February 17th, and Random Acts of Kindness Week is February 14th-20th!
pay it forward at a fav café
Start your day by paying for someone’s coffee! Imagine the look of surprise on someone’s face at Raha Coffee House on Amherst Street in Buffalo or Winter Swan on Russell Street in Rochester. It’s a simple and sweet way to spread joy — plus, it’s always great to support local spots!
leave kind notes around town
A small gesture can make a big difference. Drop off little notes of encouragement in unexpected spots around the city—inside a book at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, on a community bulletin board (try at Village Gate near The Gate House), or under a car’s windshield wiper. A quick "You're awesome" or "Hope your day’s going great" might just be what someone needs.
For fun stationery, check out Graphic-Poetry in Hamburg or Stacy K in Rochester for some beautiful options that’ll help you share your kind words.
donate to local charities
While we often think of the holidays, February is the perfect time to give back. In Buffalo, consider donating to Totally Buffalo Cares or dropping off a coat at Coats for Kids. In Rochester, organizations like Home Start Hope and House of Mercy are always in need. If you can, volunteer your time too!
send a handwritten card
As much as our friends and loved ones (and we!) appreciate cards, a simple “thank you” can mean the world to someone in a nursing home or to a local veteran. Take a moment to send a note to The Jewish Home of Rochester (Julie Murawski at Lifespan, 1900 S. Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY 14618) or Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight (Gayle O’Connell, 182 Cumberland Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14220). This small, thoughtful gesture can make someone’s day.
support local businesses
Local small businesses are what make our communities shine. Show some love by leaving a review or sharing a post on social media. Make a day of it and book a jewelry design part at Figgy Studio and Shop! You’ll have a blast creating your own jewelry (book a party of up to 18 people!) and have something tangible to show for it. Visit Peppermint for some Rochester-themed apparel and accessories or Second Nature in East Aurora where they bring the outdoors in!
Nothing beats dinner at Nosh, from their lobster empanadas to their espresso martinis. In the mood for something different? Try out Mothers Restaurant in Buffalo with their romantic feel and ever-changing menu. Whether it’s grabbing a bite to eat or shopping for something special, your support goes a long way in keeping our neighborhoods strong.
Keep an eye out for local pop ups where you can support other local artists and vendors! Pages like RocOnlyEvents keep you posted on the next event near you.
donate blood or volunteer
Consider donating blood at one of the Red Cross drives in Buffalo or Rochester — your donation could save a life. You can also volunteer at places like St. John’s in Rochester or Canopy of Neighbors in Buffalo, where there’s always a need for helping hands.
smile at a stranger
As simple as it sounds, it can do wonders! Whether you’re walking down Main Street or perusing a local shop, share a smile with someone. You never know how much it could mean to them.
Thank a local hero
We’re lucky to have so many everyday heroes in our community — from teachers to first responders to healthcare workers. Take a moment to thank them! Write a card, bring lunch, or give them a shout-out on social media. They’re the backbone of our community.
Let’s Spread the Love and Kindness! We’re all about sharing kindness in Buffalo and Rochester, and we hope you’ll join us in making this February the most love-filled month yet. Whether it’s a little note, a cup of coffee, or a big donation, every act of kindness makes a difference. Let’s spread the love — and share your stories with us!
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