Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

Caregivers and Toddlers Create Together in Classroom

by Angel Belford | Dec 3, 2025 | News and Information

In Merrick Early Head Start Classroom 106, caregivers and toddlers recently joined together for a fun and creative art session. The activity encouraged collaboration as children and adults painted side by side, fostering both creativity and meaningful connections.

The event highlighted the special bond between caregivers and children, giving families the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and shared experiences. By the end of the session, smiles and paint-streaked hands reflected a joyful morning of creativity, connection, and cherished memories.

For more information about our Head Start program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Welcoming Shakira Lopez Rentas to the ECCPP Family

by Angel Belford | Dec 2, 2025 | News and Information

We’re so thankful to have Shakira Lopez Rentas as one of the newest providers in our Early Childhood Career Pathways Program (ECCPP)! Located near the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center, Shakira recently celebrated a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with the children in her care, creating special moments of connection and learning.

The ECCPP supports providers like Shakira by offering guidance, training, and resources to help them create safe, nurturing, and educational environments for children. We love seeing our providers bring creativity, care, and joy to their classrooms each day.

To learn more about the Early Childhood Career Pathways Program and how we support new providers, visit PEACE, Inc. ECCPP.

KeyBank Grant Fuels Free Tax Help at PEACE, Inc.

by Angel Belford | Dec 2, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. is proud to receive a significant grant from KeyBank to support the organization’s free tax preparation and financial empowerment services. This generous funding helps even more local residents access no-cost tax preparation assistance, making it easier for individuals and families to navigate tax season, file accurate returns, and connect with additional support services.

The grant will strengthen PEACE, Inc.’s Free Tax Prep Program, which provides year-round, no-cost tax preparation by trained volunteers for income-eligible individuals and households in Onondaga County. The program helps clients receive the tax refunds they are entitled to, including maximizing credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, while offering education and support around tax-related financial questions and planning.
PEACE, Inc.

As part of this continued partnership, PEACE, Inc. is excited to host its Super Saturday Free Tax Preparation Event in February, with more details to be shared in the coming months. This event will bring free tax services to the community in a welcoming setting and help even more residents prepare for a strong financial year ahead.

Thank you, KeyBank, for your generous support and commitment to empowering individuals and families throughout the Central New York community.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Free Tax Preparation Program and how to access services, visit
www.peace-caa.org/programs/taxes/

Holiday Warmth at Senior Nutrition Sites

by Angel Belford | Nov 27, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. Senior Nutrition is celebrating the season by providing Thanksgiving lunches at all 29 luncheon locations throughout Onondaga County. These gatherings offer older adults a welcoming place to enjoy a holiday meal while spending meaningful time with friends, neighbors, and staff. Each site creates its own festive atmosphere, making the celebration feel special and personal for the seniors who attend.

The Senior Nutrition Program supports older adults by promoting both nutritional health and social well-being. Meals are served in group settings that encourage conversation, connection, and a sense of belonging. For many seniors, these moments of community are just as valuable as the meal itself, offering companionship and comfort during a season that can feel isolating for some.

Through these Thanksgiving events, PEACE, Inc. continues its commitment to fostering community, supporting healthy aging, and ensuring that older adults have consistent access to care, connection, and celebration.

To learn more about the Senior Nutrition Program and find resources near you, please visit https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

Merrick Head Start Hosts Vibrant Multicultural Festival

by Angel Belford | Nov 20, 2025 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. Merrick Head Start team recently brought the gym to life with a colorful Multicultural Festival, celebrating the rich diversity that makes our community special. Families and students explored exhibits representing countries and regions including Italy, Barbados, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Afghanistan, Ireland, Belize, and Africa, learning about traditions, food, music, and art from each culture.

A highlight of the festival was the energetic African drum performance, where everyone joined in to dance, laugh, and share in the joy of cultural expression. The event was a wonderful reminder of the beauty of diversity and the power of coming together as a community to learn, celebrate, and enjoy meaningful experiences together.

For more information about our Head Start program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/