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ONCO Fermentation Partners with PEACE, Inc. to Support Neighbors

by Angel Belford | Dec 16, 2025 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. County South Family Resource Center recently received a generous donation from ONCO Fermentation in support of the Community Christmas Basket Program. This annual program helps ensure that families throughout the community have access to holiday essentials and can enjoy a festive season despite financial challenges.

Barb accepted the donation on behalf of PEACE, Inc., expressing sincere gratitude for the company’s generosity and commitment to giving back. Contributions like this make a tangible difference in the lives of local families, helping provide food, gifts, and household necessities during the holiday season.

Support from local businesses such as ONCO Fermentation strengthens the community and allows PEACE, Inc. to continue its mission of uplifting families, fostering connections, and creating joyful experiences for neighbors in need.

To find a resource center near you, visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/

Helping Children Thrive: A Look at Parent-cation LLC

by Angel Belford | Dec 15, 2025 | News and Information

We are proud to highlight Lakeva Williams, owner of Parent‑cation LLC, a family‑based childcare program in North Syracuse that is making a meaningful impact for families in the community. Lakeva first became licensed through the PEACE, Inc. Early Childhood Career Pathways Program (ECCPP) in June 2023 and recently expanded to a Group Family Day Care in October 2025, allowing her to serve more children and hire a Teaching Assistant to further enhance support for families. Parent‑cation LLC is licensed to care for up to 12 children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, offering a nurturing place for early learning and play‑based development.
HS OCFS

Parent‑cation LLC provides children with opportunities for discovery, play, social engagement, and hands‑on learning in a safe, family‑style environment. With flexible hours that support working families, the program incorporates elements like creative play, exploration, and outdoor time to help young learners grow in confidence and curiosity. As a licensed provider, Lakeva’s dedication reflects the goals of the ECCPP — strengthening childcare capacity in the community while empowering early childhood professionals.
Winnie

Lakeva’s commitment to high‑quality care helps ensure that children receive supportive early experiences that build a strong foundation for future learning and success, while also giving families peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe, enriching environment.

Learn more about the Early Childhood Career Pathways Program and how it supports childcare providers in our community at PEACE, Inc. ECCPP

Holiday Magic with Bigs, Littles, and Macy’s

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

PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program is grateful to Macy’s at Destiny USA Syracuse for sponsoring a memorable holiday shopping experience for 20 Littles this season. With the support of their Bigs, the Littles enjoyed a private shopping spree in a fun and welcoming setting, selecting thoughtful gifts for their loved ones.

The PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program supports children by building confidence, resilience, and strong relationships through one-to-one mentoring. Experiences like this holiday event help Littles feel supported, valued, and empowered while strengthening the meaningful bonds they share with their Bigs.

Macy’s made the morning even more special by providing gift-wrapping supplies so each present could be beautifully prepared, along with a delicious breakfast for everyone to enjoy. This generous event created lasting holiday memories while highlighting the power of mentorship, kindness, and community support during the season of giving.

To learn more about the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

Hawley Youth Organization PreK Hosts Pancakes with Seniors

by Angel Belford | Dec 12, 2025 | News and Information

Children in Hawley Youth Organization PreK recently enjoyed a special morning at Pancakes with Seniors held at the Hawley Community Center. Dressed in their pajamas, the students shared breakfast with seniors from the community, creating a fun and heartwarming intergenerational experience.

The event provided an opportunity for children and seniors to connect, enjoy a delicious breakfast together, and strengthen community bonds. Smiles, laughter, and shared stories made the morning a memorable celebration of connection and togetherness.

For more information about our Head Start program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Learning Through Stories and Songs at Sumner Head Start

by Angel Belford | Dec 10, 2025 | News and Information

Quinn Gardner, Children’s Librarian at Petit Branch Library, recently visited our Sumner Head Start classroom to share the joy of reading and music with the children. Quinn read Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson and led the children in singing songs, creating an engaging and interactive learning experience.

During the visit, children participated by identifying animals in the story and discussing the emotions they observed, helping to strengthen literacy, comprehension, and social-emotional skills. The students did a wonderful job listening, interacting, and answering questions, making the visit both fun and educational.

To learn more about our Head Start programs, visit https://peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Big Brothers Big Sisters Program Celebrates the Season Together

by Angel Belford | Dec 7, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Program recently came together to celebrate the season with Bigs, Littles, and their families. The gathering was filled with laughter, connection, and shared moments as everyone enjoyed time together and created warm, lasting memories.

Events like this highlight the importance of building strong, supportive relationships and celebrating community. PEACE, Inc. wishes everyone merry everything and happy always as we head into the season ahead.

Caregivers and Toddlers Create Together in Classroom

by Angel Belford | Dec 3, 2025 | News and Information

In Merrick Early Head Start Classroom 106, caregivers and toddlers recently joined together for a fun and creative art session. The activity encouraged collaboration as children and adults painted side by side, fostering both creativity and meaningful connections.

The event highlighted the special bond between caregivers and children, giving families the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and shared experiences. By the end of the session, smiles and paint-streaked hands reflected a joyful morning of creativity, connection, and cherished memories.

For more information about our Head Start program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Welcoming Shakira Lopez Rentas to the ECCPP Family

by Angel Belford | Dec 2, 2025 | News and Information

We’re so thankful to have Shakira Lopez Rentas as one of the newest providers in our Early Childhood Career Pathways Program (ECCPP)! Located near the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center, Shakira recently celebrated a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with the children in her care, creating special moments of connection and learning.

The ECCPP supports providers like Shakira by offering guidance, training, and resources to help them create safe, nurturing, and educational environments for children. We love seeing our providers bring creativity, care, and joy to their classrooms each day.

To learn more about the Early Childhood Career Pathways Program and how we support new providers, visit PEACE, Inc. ECCPP.

KeyBank Grant Fuels Free Tax Help at PEACE, Inc.

by Angel Belford | Dec 2, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. is proud to receive a significant grant from KeyBank to support the organization’s free tax preparation and financial empowerment services. This generous funding helps even more local residents access no-cost tax preparation assistance, making it easier for individuals and families to navigate tax season, file accurate returns, and connect with additional support services.

The grant will strengthen PEACE, Inc.’s Free Tax Prep Program, which provides year-round, no-cost tax preparation by trained volunteers for income-eligible individuals and households in Onondaga County. The program helps clients receive the tax refunds they are entitled to, including maximizing credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, while offering education and support around tax-related financial questions and planning.
PEACE, Inc.

As part of this continued partnership, PEACE, Inc. is excited to host its Super Saturday Free Tax Preparation Event in February, with more details to be shared in the coming months. This event will bring free tax services to the community in a welcoming setting and help even more residents prepare for a strong financial year ahead.

Thank you, KeyBank, for your generous support and commitment to empowering individuals and families throughout the Central New York community.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Free Tax Preparation Program and how to access services, visit
www.peace-caa.org/programs/taxes/

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