Recently, the Perry Hy-Vee has been collecting donations of roses as part of their “Million Stem Rose Sell” promotion, and this week they’re delivering those roses to senior care facilities in the City.

Store Manager Matt Rohe says the idea came from another store in the company, and he thought it was something worth trying. As of Monday, they had raised 1,000 roses for the elderly, and Rohe estimates there will be over 1,200 before the promotion is over. Yesterday morning, Hy-Vee delivered 400 of the flowers to the Perry Lutheran Homes’ main campus, and several hundred more to Spring Valley. Roses will be brought to the Rowley Masonic Community and Pearl Valley in the coming days. Rohe believes this is a great way to bring the community together, and he’s hopeful the flowers will help brighten the lives of all who receive them. “I think it’s great to just give back whenever you can. Obviously a rose brings a smile to everybody, and there’s enough here to give more than one to all the residents. And also we’re hoping the staff would be able to get some, and maybe just decorate the place up and bring some color and laughter and smiles!”

Rohe adds, with the success they’ve seen with this promotion, he’s on board for doing it again next year. Anyone who wants to donate a rose to a senior care facility can still do so through today at the Perry Hy-Vee. Rohe is thankful to everyone that has already taken part, and any who may still do so.