Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

Celebrating Weatherization Day: Improving Homes, Supporting Communities

by Angel Belford | Oct 30, 2025 | News and Information

October 30th marks National Weatherization Day, a time to recognize the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and its role in helping New York families save energy, lower utility costs, and enjoy more comfortable homes. Administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, WAP has been improving lives for decades.

In Central New York, PEACE, Inc.’s Department of Energy and Housing Services has been leading this effort for over 25 years. Serving income-eligible homeowners and renters in Onondaga County, the department provides free weatherization services, including sealing air leaks, insulating attics and walls, upgrading heating systems, and replacing inefficient appliances. These improvements not only reduce energy bills but also enhance indoor air quality and overall home safety.

The Department of Energy and Housing Services is currently focused on larger-scale projects, including the progress on a 28-unit multi-family property and the start of a 20-unit multi-family property. By upgrading multi-family properties, PEACE, Inc. can extend the benefits of energy efficiency to families simultaneously, creating safer, healthier, and more affordable living environments across entire buildings.

To apply for services or learn more, visit PEACE, Inc.’s Energy & Housing Services or call (315) 470-3315. This Weatherization Day, we celebrate the progress made in energy efficiency and look forward to a future of sustainable, comfortable homes for all.

For more information: https://www.peace-caa.org/energyhousing/

Westcott Seniors Gather for Festive Halloween Lunch

by Angel Belford | Oct 30, 2025 | News and Information

Senior Nutrition brought the Halloween spirit to Westcott Community Center with a lively celebration filled with creativity, connection, and seasonal fun. Seniors arrived in an array of festive costumes, transforming the room with bright colors, imaginative outfits, and joyful energy. Their enthusiasm set a warm tone for the day and reminded everyone how meaningful it is to create spaces where older adults can express themselves and enjoy shared traditions.

The morning featured rounds of BINGO, a favorite activity that encouraged friendly competition and plenty of laughter. Participants cheered one another on and celebrated each win with excitement. Once the games concluded, everyone gathered for a warm and delicious lunch served by our Senior Nutrition team. This time together provided an opportunity to relax, exchange stories, and reconnect with friends. It also highlighted how important social interaction is for the well-being of older adults in our community.

Events like this demonstrate the value of bringing seniors together in a fun and welcoming environment. We are grateful to everyone who joined the celebration and helped make the day memorable. To learn more about Senior Nutrition programs, upcoming activities, or ways to get involved, please visit:

www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

Pumpkin Fun at PEACE, Inc. Head Start: Families Create, Learn, and Celebrate

by Angel Belford | Oct 28, 2025 | News and Information

This October, children and families at PEACE, Inc. Head Start had fun with pumpkins. They painted, carved, and learned together.

At Roxboro Head Start, families joined their children to paint pumpkins. The pumpkins were donated by Tim’s Pumpkin Patch. Nurse Ryan talked to the children and parents about the differences between candy and medicine to help keep children safe.

At Merrick Head Start, Room 211 children and their parents carved and decorated pumpkins. Each child took home their pumpkin. In Room 106, infants and their parents painted and decorated paper pumpkins. These activities helped families spend time together and have fun while learning.

At Sumner Head Start, Classroom 104 explored pumpkins in a hands-on way. Children touched and scooped the pumpkins. They also made a Fruit & Pumpkin Dip together.

PEACE, Inc. Head Start pumpkin events are a fun way for families to learn, create, and enjoy time together.

To learn more about our Head Start and Early Head Start programs, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Fall Fun for The Golden Age Social Club

by Angel Belford | Oct 28, 2025 | News and Information

In October, the Golden Age Social Club from the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center enjoyed a delightful fall outing to Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards. Members savored fresh apple cider, warm cider donuts, and the crisp autumn air as they took in the beautiful fall scenery. The trip provided a relaxing opportunity for participants to connect, share conversation, and enjoy the season together.

As Halloween approached, the group continued their seasonal fun with a visit to Tim’s Pumpkin Patch. Seniors explored the festive decorations, picked out their favorite pumpkins, and enjoyed warm drinks and tasty snacks while spending time together. Both outings offered a wonderful chance for members of the Golden Age Social Club to engage with the community, enjoy the sights and flavors of fall, and create lasting memories.

Outings like these are an important part of life for seniors, providing not only a chance to enjoy the beauty and flavors of the season but also valuable opportunities to socialize and connect with others. Spending time together outside the usual routine helps strengthen friendships, support emotional well-being, and create meaningful experiences that contribute to a happy, engaged community.

If you would like to learn more about The Golden Age Social Club, contact the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center https://www.peace-caa.org/esfrc/

Colorful Stones, Happy Memories, and Roscoe

by Angel Belford | Oct 24, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. Genesee Head Start is excited to share two special projects happening at our school. Tim Gardner, Room 4 teacher assistant, helped with creating a new walkway made of stepping stones from all four classrooms. Each classroom contributed a stone, and one special stone honors our beloved friend, co-worker, and “work mom,” Ms. Toni Blackmon. This new walkway provides students and visitors with a colorful, meaningful path to enjoy every day.

On the other side of the building, near the parking lot, students and families can meet Roscoe the snake. Thanks to Samantha Olson, Room 4 teacher, children and their special friends painted rocks during our September Male Involvement Event to create Roscoe’s body. Each rock was decorated with bright colors and unique designs, making Roscoe a fun and growing part of the school.

The next time you visit Genesee Head Start, stop by to see Roscoe and feel free to add your own painted rock. We hope Roscoe will continue to grow and bring joy to everyone who passes by.

To learn more about Head Start and Early Head Start, visit: www.peace-caa.org/hs