Syracuse, New York, July 19, 2023 – Onondaga County Department of Adult and Long Term Care Services has awarded grants to senior centers across the City of Syracuse. Awardees include PEACE, Inc.’s Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center, SAGE Upstate, Huntington Family Centers, Dunbar Center, Westcott Community Center, and Syracuse Northeast Community Center. Funds are awarded to provide critical capital repairs, such as roof and kitchen updates and HVAC systems. The formal announcement was made at the PEACE, Inc.’s Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center.

County funds will allow the PEACE, Inc. Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center to continue safe and consistent delivery of senior programming. More specifically, funds will support 1) Asbestos abatement, 2) Masonry repairs on the top of each of the building’s 5 exterior walls and the stair tower, and 3) Roof demolition and replacement. The agency expects to make these necessary repairs within the next year.

The Center provides an array of senior enrichment and socialization activities for area residents, including Bingo and Card Games, Lunch n Learns, day trips, movie days, tablet trainings, and more. Through the agency’s Senior Nutrition Program, the Center provides congregate meals, 4 days a week. Additionally, the Center houses the agency’s Foster Grandparent Program, which provides seniors with the opportunity to earn a small stipend and share their knowledge by mentoring at-risk children.

For more information, please contact Todd Goehle, Community Engagement Director, at todd.goehle@peace-caa.org.