PEACE, Inc. is grateful to the community partners who have joined the Senior Nutrition Program for five Thursdays of Senior Nutrition Days at the CNY Regional Market this summer. These partners have spent time connecting with seniors, sharing information, and helping create a welcoming community experience around each meal.

Inviting community agencies to join these events gives seniors an opportunity to connect directly with organizations and learn about resources that may support them and their families. Having these partners in a familiar and welcoming setting makes it easier for seniors to ask questions, discover available services, and build connections within their community. These interactions can help seniors feel more informed, supported, and connected beyond their time at the lunch.

Thank you to State Senator Rachel May, State Senator Chris Ryan, Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon, the Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services, the Onondaga County Health Department Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, Loretto, Meals on Wheels of Syracuse, Onondaga County Public Libraries, SOFSA, Health Education Project, Vera House, YMCA of Central New York, Upstate Global Health Institute at Upstate Medical University, and Nascentia Health for being part of these summer events.

The Senior Nutrition Days at the Market have provided more than an opportunity to enjoy a meal. They have created space for seniors to connect with community organizations, learn about available resources, and spend time together. PEACE, Inc. appreciates the many partners who helped make these gatherings meaningful.

Senior Nutrition at the Market may be concluded for 2026, but the Senior Nutrition Program runs year round at 30 different locations across Onondaga County. Visit our website to learn more and find a location close to you or your loved ones. Peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

PEACE, Inc. has concluded the 2026 Senior Nutrition at the Market series. This seasonal program has become a summer highlight for many seniors, offering an opportunity to enjoy a nutritious meal while spending time with friends, neighbors, and other members of the community.

In August, 173 lunches were served during the two final Market lunches, bringing the 2026 program total to 524 meals served.

The Senior Nutrition Lunch at the Market provides benefits that extend far beyond the meal itself. While nutritious food plays an important role in supporting the health and well-being of older adults, the opportunity to gather together, share conversation, build friendships, and participate in a welcoming community is just as meaningful. These social connections can help seniors feel less isolated and more engaged with the people and community around them.

The Senior Nutrition Lunch at the Market is made possible through a partnership with the CNY Regional Market and the Onondaga County Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services. PEACE, Inc. is grateful to these partners for helping make these community gatherings possible.

Don’t forget that the Senior Nutrition Program is a yearl round program! Find a location near you by visiting: peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

As July comes to a close, PEACE, Inc., Senior Nutrition Program, in partnership with the Onondaga County Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services – Office for Aging and the CNY Regional Market, is celebrating a successful first month of the Senior Nutrition Lunch at the Market. During the first four Thursday lunches of the six-week series, 350 nutritious meals were served to older adults, providing not only healthy food but also an opportunity to enjoy the summer season together.

Each week, PEACE, Inc. staff volunteers their time to welcome guests, serve meals, and build meaningful connections with the seniors who attend. While the Senior Nutrition Program provides meals year-round at 30 dining locations across Onondaga County, the Lunch at the Market series offers a unique seasonal opportunity for older adults to enjoy a meal in the vibrant setting of the CNY Regional Market.

Beyond the meal itself, the weekly lunches continue to strengthen friendships and reduce social isolation by creating a welcoming space where older adults can connect with one another. These gatherings reflect PEACE, Inc.’s ongoing commitment to helping older adults remain healthy, active, and engaged in their communities.

With two lunches still to come on August 6 and August 13, PEACE, Inc. is excited to continue the momentum built throughout July and looks forward to welcoming even more seniors for the final weeks of this year’s summer tradition.

PEACE, Inc. extends its sincere thanks to the CNY Regional Market and the Onondaga County Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services for their continued partnership and support. Together, these organizations are making a lasting difference by providing nutritious meals, fostering meaningful connections, and creating welcoming opportunities for older adults throughout Onondaga County.

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

The PEACE, Inc. Senior Nutrition Program recently recognized several outstanding staff members and volunteers whose dedication helps create welcoming, supportive environments for older adults throughout Onondaga County. Their commitment ensures that meal sites are not only places to enjoy nutritious food, but also spaces where seniors can build friendships, stay connected, and feel a sense of belonging.

At the John Carno Center, PEACE, Inc. recognized volunteers Jeanette Weber and Patty Geremia for one year of service, along with Annette Cregan, Senior Recreation Leader and volunteer, who has supported the program since its beginning three years ago. Providence House Site Manager Daphne Davis was also recognized for her year and a half of service and for helping provide participants with both nutritious meals and a warm, welcoming experience.

Additional recognition was given to staff and volunteers at the Bob Cecile Center and Brighton Towers Center. Honorees included Cassandra Schaeffer, an eight-year volunteer, and Pat Lopes, who has served as Site Manager for two years. At Brighton Towers, volunteers Christina Zack, Lisa Breland, Frida Abou, Sandy Kelim, and Tysha Turner were recognized alongside Site Manager Colline Mackey. Together, they help create a positive environment where seniors can gather, enjoy meals, and connect with one another.

Special recognition was also given to Becky, Site Supervisor at the Meadows Senior Lunch Center. Through her leadership, compassion, and dedication, Becky helps foster a welcoming atmosphere where participants feel valued and supported. Her efforts play an important role in ensuring seniors have access to nutritious meals, meaningful social connections, and a strong sense of community.

The success of the Senior Nutrition Program is made possible by individuals like these who generously give their time, energy, and care to others. Their dedication strengthens the community each day and helps ensure older adults throughout the region have opportunities to remain engaged, connected, and supported.