Temporary Move for Westside Family Resource Center Services

Temporary Move for Westside Family Resource Center Services

The Westside Family Resource Center at 200 Wyoming Street will be closed due to construction through December 2026. This is an exciting opportunity; we are looking forward to having a building that will help us serve the community better!

The last pantry day at Westside FRC will be May 14, 2026.

Starting May 15, 2026, services from Westside FRC will temporarily move to PEACE, Inc.’s Emma L. Johnston Southside Family Resource Center located at 136 Dr. MLK W, Syracuse, NY 13205.

Services may be limited during May while staff move and set up the new space. To help support the community, there will still be a fresh food giveaway at Southside FRC on May 28 until noon.

Starting June 8, most services will continue at the Southside location with little interruption. Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

From June to December, at the Southside FRC:

Fresh food giveaways will be held on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month.
Pantry days will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month.
Community members can still call Westside FRC by dialing 315-470-3352.

More information about hours, directions, and services will be shared on our website and social media pages.

Bright Futures Youth Explores Tully Post Office

Bright Futures Youth Explores Tully Post Office

The Bright Futures Youth Group at the County South Family Resource Center recently visited the Tully Post Office as part of its ongoing career exploration activities, giving youth a behind-the-scenes look at an important community service.

During the visit, participants toured the facility and learned how mail moves through the postal system from start to finish. Clerk Derek shared insights into the daily operations of the Post Office and introduced students to some of the unique items that pass through the mail. Youth were surprised to learn that everything from bees and birds to coconuts from Hawaii can be shipped through the postal service under the right conditions.

The experience also highlighted the many career opportunities connected to the postal industry. Students learned about the roles of mail carriers, mechanics, customer service staff, and even graphic designers who help create logos, signage, and marketing materials. By exploring workplaces in their own community, youth gain a better understanding of the wide range of careers available to them and the many paths they can pursue in the future.

Bright Futures Discovers the Work Behind the Beauty of Our Parks

Bright Futures Discovers the Work Behind the Beauty of Our Parks

The Bright Futures Youth Group at the County South Family Resource Center visited Delphi Falls County Park for a day of outdoor exploration and career discovery.

While enjoying the beauty of the park, youth learned about the many people who work behind the scenes to create, maintain, and improve public spaces. From landscape architects and construction crews to maintenance teams and office staff, participants gained a better understanding of the wide variety of careers that help parks serve communities every day.

The visit offered more than just a chance to enjoy the outdoors. It helped youth see how their interests and skills could connect to future career opportunities. Experiences like this encourage young people to explore new possibilities, learn about different career paths, and discover the many ways they can make a positive impact in their communities.

Creating Space for Connection and Confidence

Creating Space for Connection and Confidence

The Bright Futures Youth Group at the County South Family Resource Center recently treated the girls in the program to a special manicure outing focused on self-care, confidence, and connection.

Throughout the day, participants enjoyed time together while getting their nails done, sharing conversations, laughter, and encouragement. The outing provided a welcoming environment where the girls could relax, build friendships, and express themselves in a positive and supportive setting.

Activities like this help young people develop self-confidence, strengthen social connections, and recognize the importance of self-care. By creating opportunities for meaningful experiences and personal growth, the Bright Futures Youth Group continues to empower youth and support their overall well-being, one fingernail at a time.

Health and Wellness Fair Brings Valuable Resources to the Community

Health and Wellness Fair Brings Valuable Resources to the Community

The PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently hosted a Health and Wellness Fair, bringing together a variety of community agencies and organizations to connect residents with valuable resources and services. The event provided an opportunity for community members to learn about programs available to support their health, well-being, and everyday needs.

Attendees were able to visit with representatives from local agencies and gather information about the services they offer. In addition to resource materials, participants had access to clothing, food, household supplies, hygiene items, and seed packs to help start home gardens. Guests also enjoyed a BBQ lunch, creating an inviting atmosphere where neighbors could gather, connect, and learn about the resources available throughout the community.

The event showcased the power of community partnerships. By bringing multiple organizations together in one location, residents were able to explore a wide range of services and supports without having to travel to different agencies. These connections can often lead to new opportunities, increased access to assistance, and stronger support networks for individuals and families.

Events like the Health and Wellness Fair play an important role in connecting individuals and families with resources they may not know exist. By bringing community partners together in one place, the fair helped strengthen local connections and provided residents with tools and resources that can support their long-term success and well-being. Through events like this, PEACE, Inc. continues its mission of helping people in the community realize their potential for becoming self-sufficient.

For more information on the Family Resource Centers visit: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/

Exploring Nature with the Bright Futures Youth Group

Exploring Nature with the Bright Futures Youth Group

The PEACE, Inc. County South Family Resource Center Bright Futures Youth Group recently spent time outdoors at Labrador Hollow, enjoying a day surrounded by fresh air, scenic views, and nature trails. The group took advantage of the beautiful weather to step away from their usual routines and connect with the natural environment.

During the visit, youth explored the trails, shared conversations, and enjoyed time together as they experienced the outdoors as a group. The day offered opportunities for relaxation, laughter, and meaningful connection with peers in a peaceful setting close to home.

Experiences like this help youth build friendships, strengthen social connections, and develop an appreciation for nature and healthy recreation. Activities such as these also support positive youth development by encouraging exploration, confidence, and a sense of belonging within the community.

Community Comes Together for Successful Clothing Drive

Community Comes Together for Successful Clothing Drive

The PEACE, Inc. County South Family Resource Center recently hosted a successful Spring Clothing Drive, providing clothing, shoes, and seasonal essentials to more than 50 local families.

Thanks to the generosity of community donors and volunteers, families were able to select items that met their needs for the season ahead. The event created a welcoming environment where community members could access important resources while connecting with others in the area.

Events like the Spring Clothing Drive highlight the impact of neighbors helping neighbors and demonstrate the strength of community support. Through donations, volunteer efforts, and shared compassion, PEACE, Inc. continues working to ensure families have access to resources that support stability and well-being.

County South Family Resource Center Youth Group Welcomes Spring with Creative Project

County South Family Resource Center Youth Group Welcomes Spring with Creative Project

The Bright Futures youth group at the County South Family Resource Center in Tully welcomed the season with a creative, hands-on activity, making tin can wind chimes inspired by spring. The project brought energy and excitement as youth explored their artistic side in a fun and engaging setting.

Participants designed and assembled their own wind chimes, using a variety of materials to create unique pieces that reflected their personalities. The activity encouraged creativity while also helping youth develop fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. Just as important, it gave them time to connect, collaborate, and enjoy being part of a supportive group.

Programs like Bright Futures provide a positive space where youth can build confidence, learn new skills, and express themselves freely. Through activities like this, participants strengthen connections with one another while continuing to grow in a welcoming community environment.

To learn more about the Bright Futures Youth Group or the County South Family Resource Center visit: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/csfrc/

St. Leo’s and PEACE, Inc. Expand Fresh Food Access

St. Leo’s and PEACE, Inc. Expand Fresh Food Access

St. Leo’s Church partners with the Food Bank of Central New York to provide a free fresh food distribution for community members on the first Tuesday of each month. This important effort helps ensure families have access to nutritious food, including fresh produce.

For individuals who qualify but are unable to travel to the distribution site, the PEACE, Inc. County South Family Resource Center provides home delivery support. With the help of dedicated volunteers, fresh food is brought directly to participants’ homes, helping remove barriers to access.

Family Advocate Catie Waite recently joined volunteers Pete Reppenhagen and Del Wayne to help unload the delivery truck and prepare food for distribution. Their teamwork helps ensure community members receive the support they need with dignity and care.

This collaboration highlights the importance of community partnerships in strengthening food access and supporting family well-being.

If you need to find a food pantry visit: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/food-pantries/

Paws and Paint: Bright Futures Creates Pet Portraits

Paws and Paint: Bright Futures Creates Pet Portraits

The Bright Futures After School Group from the County South Family Resource Center had a creative and engaging experience with their latest project, painting “Pet Portraits.” Families shared photos of their children’s favorite pets, giving students the opportunity to turn meaningful memories into works of art.

Each young artist worked carefully to capture their pet’s unique personality on canvas. From playful dogs to cozy cats, the paintings were filled with color, creativity, and attention to detail. The activity encouraged self-expression while helping students build confidence in their artistic abilities.

Projects like this highlight the importance of creativity in youth development. By connecting art with personal experiences, students are able to express themselves, strengthen emotional connections, and celebrate the special bonds they share with their pets.

Learn more about the County South Family Resource Center: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/csfrc/

Accessibility Tools
hide