PEACE Inc | PEACE, Inc.

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/

New Literacy Tools for Foster Grandparents

by Angel Belford | Nov 19, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. extends a sincere thank you to the Literacy Coalition of Onondaga County for providing funding to support training for the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program. Their generosity helps ensure that volunteers have the tools and knowledge they need to support young learners across the community.

Earlier this month, Child Care Solutions led a training focused on promoting literacy both inside and outside the classroom. The session explored literacy development from infancy through second grade, highlighting the foundational stages of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Volunteers practiced engaging literacy strategies, explored ways to strengthen early skill development, and received hands-on instructional tools they can use while working with children. Each Foster Grandparent left with a bag of literacy support materials to carry into their volunteer sites.

We also want to thank Congressman John W. Mannion for stopping by to share his classroom experiences and speak to the importance of having a caring, supportive adult in a child’s life. His message reinforced the meaningful impact Foster Grandparents have every day.

Learn more about the AmeriCorps Foster Grandparent Program here:
https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/

Community Comes Together at Second Meeting by FOCUS Greater Syracuse and PEACE, Inc.

by Angel Belford | Nov 17, 2025 | News and Information

FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. and PEACE, Inc. recently hosted the second of two convenings designed to give social and human service professionals and community members a space to connect, share, and build resiliency together. More than 70 participants drew inspiration from keynote speaker Qiana Williams and took part in “speed networking,” exchanging ideas about community barriers, available resources, and their hopes for the future. The event created a supportive environment where participants could openly discuss challenges while also celebrating successes within the community.

The convenings were made possible with funding from the Central New York Community Foundation. Attendees left energized and motivated to continue collaborating, with many expressing excitement about the partnerships and new connections formed. Similar convenings are planned for the upcoming year, offering more opportunities for community members and professionals to learn from one another and strengthen the support network across the region.

Community Partnership Provides Support for Families in Need

by Angel Belford | Nov 14, 2025 | News and Information

The Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently partnered with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Kappa Xi Zeta Chapter to deliver food boxes to families across several PEACE, Inc. programs. Thanks to this meaningful collaboration and a grant from DOTs, 30 families received nutritious food and essential items to help meet their household needs. This effort reflects the Center’s ongoing commitment to supporting neighbors and strengthening community connections. By working together with local partners, the Eastside Family Resource Center helps ensure that families have access to resources that promote stability, well-being, and peace of mind. Families who would like to learn more about our Family Resource Centers and available supports are encouraged to visit: www.peace-caa.org/frc

Thank you to the Baldwinsville CSD for your SockTober Donation

by Angel Belford | Nov 13, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. extends a huge thank-you to the Baldwinsville Central School District for its generous donation of socks to the County West Family Resource Center. During October, BCSD students participated in SockTober, collecting new socks to help neighbors in need. Their generosity provides comfort to families and seniors in our community, and reminds us all how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

For more information about the CWFRC, visit: www.peace-caa.org/cwsfrc

‘Bright Futures’ visits Bulletproof Combat

by Angel Belford | Nov 13, 2025 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. County South Family Resource Center youth group recently visited Bulletproof Combat to meet local entrepreneur Shane Manley. This year, the “Bright Futures” After School Program is focusing on career exploration, and several students expressed interest in careers related to sports and athletics.

Shane shared his journey from growing up in Lafayette to becoming an athletic trainer and opening his own business. The visit gave students a chance to learn about entrepreneurship, the rewards and challenges of running a business, and the importance of teamwork and dedication.

The trip was an inspiring start to the students’ career exploration journey. To learn more about the “Bright Futures” After School Program, visit County South Family Resource Center’s website.

Congressman Mannion Meets PEACE, Inc. Seniors!

by Angel Belford | Nov 5, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was honored to welcome Congressman John W. Mannion to the Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center, where he spent time meeting with our senior participants and AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program volunteers. During his visit, the Congressman shared updates from across the district and expressed his appreciation for the Foster Grandparents’ dedicated service to children and classrooms in our community.

Congressman Mannion also took time to listen to the seniors’ questions and concerns, engaging in a thoughtful conversation that meant a great deal to those in attendance. We are grateful for his willingness to connect directly with our neighbors and for his support of programs that strengthen families and communities.

If you would like more information about the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program visit;
www.peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/

Classrooms Shine in Merrick Head Start Pumpkin Contest

by Angel Belford | Nov 4, 2025 | News and Information

Merrick Head Start recently hosted a pumpkin decorating contest, and the classrooms brought incredible creativity and imagination to the event.

Room 211 took home first place with a pumpkin inspired by The Old Lady Who Swallowed the Fly, while Room 206 earned second place with a Snoopy pumpkin based on It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

All the classrooms participated enthusiastically, making the activity a fun and festive experience for children and their families. Events like this help foster creativity, teamwork, and community at Merrick Head Start, providing children with joyful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

For more information about PEACE, Inc. Head Start programs, visit: https://www.peace-caa.org/hs/

Fall Cozy Closet Giveaway Helps Families Prepare for the Season

by Angel Belford | Nov 4, 2025 | News and Information

The Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently hosted its Fall Cozy Closet Giveaway, welcoming community members to gather warm clothing and essential items as the cooler months approach. A total of 22 families visited the event, selecting coats, clothing, boots, toys, games, and a variety of household items to prepare for the season with comfort and confidence.

This seasonal giveaway plays an important role in supporting neighbors who may be facing financial strain as temperatures drop. By offering high-quality donated items at no cost, the event helps families stretch their budgets while still meeting basic needs.

The Cozy Closet Giveaway is part of the Center’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the community by promoting family well-being and increasing access to local resources. Events like this give families a chance to connect with staff, learn about available services, and build supportive relationships with their neighbors.

If you would like to learn more visit, www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/esfrc/

Costumes, Candy, and Community Fun!

by Angel Belford | Oct 31, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was excited to participate in two local Trunk-or-Treat events this Halloween season, held at LeMoyne Elementary and Mundy Library. Due to the weather, both events were moved indoors, but the festive spirit was just as strong. Numerous organizations joined to hand out candy, creating a lively and welcoming environment for children and families.

The children’s costumes were creative and colorful, with each child showcasing their favorite characters. Even when multiple children chose the same character, every outfit had its own unique touch, adding to the fun of the events.

These Trunk-or-Treat gatherings also provide an inclusive environment for children with disabilities, allowing them to enjoy the excitement and festivities of Halloween in a safe, welcoming, and accommodating setting. By hosting these events and ensuring accessibility, it makes it possible for every child to participate and experience the festive fun.

Together, both events created a safe and enjoyable space for the entire community to come together and celebrate the season. PEACE, Inc. is grateful to the organizers and volunteers who helped make these celebrations a success and looks forward to joining in more community events in the future.