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Volunteers Celebrated Birthdays at Meadow’s Apartments

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

Senior Nutrition recently celebrated two very special birthdays during a senior luncheon at Meadow’s Apartments. Becky and Nancy, longtime volunteers, were recognized for the care and dedication they bring to every gathering.

Becky makes sure every senior with a birthday near a luncheon is celebrated, adding a personal touch to each event. Nancy generously volunteers her time to serve meals with kindness and attention, ensuring every participant feels valued and welcome.

At this luncheon, the spotlight was on Becky and Nancy, celebrating them for the same care and support they provide to the community day after day. Their efforts make the Senior Nutrition program a welcoming and meaningful space for seniors.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Senior Nutrition program, visit: https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

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

Little Heroes Learn Big Lessons: Fire Prevention Day at Genesee Head Start

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

In awarness of Fire Prevention Month, Genesee Head Start welcomed local firefighters for a special visit with students and staff. The firefighters engaged the children in a fun and educational experience, reading a story, discussing important fire safety tips, and giving the students the exciting opportunity to explore one of their fire trucks up close.

The visit offered hands-on learning that reinforced fire safety lessons in a way children could easily understand. Students were able to see the firefighters’ gear and ask questions about the work firefighters do in their community.

Each child left the event with a fireman’s hat and a sticker, making the day both memorable and meaningful. Events like this help instill important safety habits while encouraging curiosity, respect, and admiration for community helpers.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start program, visit here

Little Hearts, Big Lessons: Head Start Introduces Baby Doll Circle Time

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

At PEACE, Inc.’s Liverpool Head Start site, the sound of gentle coos and caring chatter fills the room as children embrace their newest friends: baby dolls. The activity, called Baby Doll Circle Time, was recently introduced by Child Behavioral Specialist Beth Chiasson, and it’s already capturing hearts.

As the children cuddle, feed, and care for their dolls, they are doing more than having fun. They’re learning vital social and emotional skills. From practicing empathy to building attachment and nurturing abilities, these moments help lay the foundation for healthy relationships that can last a lifetime.

This initiative is one of many ways Head Start and Early Head Start programs support early childhood development in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Learn more about these programs and how they help children thrive at: www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Senator May Connects with Children and Community Needs

by Angel Belford | Oct 23, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was honored to welcome NYS Senator Rachel May and a team from Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ office to Sumner Head Start yesterday. The group joined a lesson in Room 202, observing children’s learning in action, and spent time connecting with one of our dedicated Foster Grandparent volunteers.

During their visit, they also met with the PEACE, Inc. team to discuss important community needs, including housing, weatherization and rising energy costs, food access, and other local priorities. The conversation highlighted the vital role programs like Head Start play in supporting children and families, and we greatly appreciate their interest and commitment to our community.

Thank you to Senator May and the team for taking the time to see our work firsthand and engage with the children and staff who make it all possible.

Learn more about our Head Start programs and register your child at www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Keeping Kids Safe: Lead Poisoning Prevention at Head Start

by Angel Belford | Oct 21, 2025 | News and Information

The Onondaga County Health Department visited PEACE, Inc.’s Sumner and Merrick Head Start classrooms to share important information about the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

The visits were part of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, an annual effort to raise awareness about protecting children from lead exposure. Families learned how to keep their homes and children safe, while the kids had a blast meeting Leo, the friendly mascot who helped make learning fun!

Parents received practical tips on reducing lead risks at home and accessing community resources for lead testing and prevention. Staff and families had the opportunity to ask questions, engage in hands-on activities, and learn strategies to support children’s health and safety. Events like these reinforce PEACE, Inc.’s commitment to fostering safe, healthy, and informed communities.

Thank you to the Onondaga County Health Department for partnering with us to promote healthy, safe environments for our children and families.