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    MAY 14th A DAY TO ALWAYS REMEMBER WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER

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    “WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER.” This phrase has remained on my mind as I reflect on the Buffalo and Western New York community’s response following the mass shooting tragedy of May 14, 2022. This is a day that will be remembered forever. In the aftermath, our community demonstrated resilience, compassion, and unity, reminding us that while no single agency can do it all, together we can create meaningful and lasting change.

    We have grown stronger by recognizing that it is up to all of us to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. By continuing honest conversations and thoughtful planning, we can address the challenges that many Buffalo residents face every day.

    I believe the most meaningful way to honor the ten lives lost to racial violence is by working collectively to remove barriers and resolve the inequities that persist in our community. Hate has no place here. Scarcity should not exist, and everyone deserves access to the resources needed not just to survive, but to thrive.

    Together, WE CAN ACCOMPLISH THIS.

    I will always remember, and I remain committed to strengthening our city and our communities by centering the needs, voices, and well-being of our community members.

    Chandra Redfern, MS.
    CEO
    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BFNC)

    THE SUMMER ALWAYS BRING OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR YOUTH AND TEENS

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    SUMMER 2026 OPPORTUNITIES

    ***DETAILS AND TO REGISTER: CALL: 716-856-0363 EXT: 246 or visit www.bfnc.org

    *** COMPLETE THE Summer Enrichment Application (Camp) 2026 APPLICATION BELOW***

    Summer Enrichment CAMP updated app 2026

    BE SURE TO SCROLL DOWNWARD AND READ ALL INFORMATION. Thank You

     

    SUMMER CAMP- YOUTH SUMMER ENRICHMENT CAMP

    ***DETAILS AND TO REGISTER: CALL: 716-856-0363 EXT: 246 or visit www.bfnc.org

     

    SUMMER JOBS: BFNC SUMMER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

     

    ***DETAILS AND TO REGISTER: CALL: 716-856-0363 EXT: 246 or visit www.bfnc.org

     

    WE WANT TO ASSIST COMMUNITY MEMBERS: NEW WORKSHOPS AT THE COMMUNITY RESOURCE ROOM

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    THE COMMUNITY RESOURCE ROOM IS MORE THAN A COMPUTER

    THERE ARE WORKSHOPS!
    CHECK OUR EVENT PAGE and SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UPDATES

     

    NOTE: This session is in-person only. Registration is preferred but not required:
    https://bfnc.jotform.com/scarter/community-resource-room-appointment

    "CARING TOGETHER" IS A NEW CAREGIVERS SUPPORT NETWORK

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    (Buffalo, NY) GREAT NEWS FOR BUFFALO area caregivers and the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BFNC). BFNC has received a $1.4 million​, 3-year grant to build the “Caring Together” collaborative respite program for caregivers, which includes the local faith-based community.

    The new 3-year grant will enable BFNC to build on its previous caregivers’ respite programs and expand its collaboration with the faith-based community, encouraging local churches to establish support initiatives for caregivers.

    “The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is at the forefront of providing support for Caregivers. Caregivers deserve to feel heard and seen. BFNC is thrilled to help fill an important gap in the Buffalo and Western New York communities through the Caring Together program. We look forward to expanding our work with area Caregivers,” stated Chandra Redfern, CEO of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers.

    Redfern adds that “the 3-year grant provides our agency with the opportunity to develop the Caring Together Program as a network to uplift and support caregivers in several communities.”

     

    WE ASK THE FAITH BASED COMMUNITY TO PLEASE JOIN THE NETWORK.

    CARE GIVERS YOU ARE NOT ALONE! INTRODUCING THE "CARING TOGETHER" PROGRAM

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    BFNC Receives $1.4M to Build an Expanded
    Caregiver Support Network in Buffalo

    (Buffalo, NY) GREAT NEWS FOR BUFFALO area caregivers and the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BFNC). BFNC has received a $1.4 million​, 3-year grant to build the “Caring Together” collaborative respite program for caregivers, which includes the local faith-based community.

    The new 3-year grant will enable BFNC to build on its previous caregivers’ respite programs and expand its collaboration with the faith-based community, encouraging local churches to establish support initiatives for caregivers.

    “The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is at the forefront of providing support for Caregivers. Caregivers deserve to feel heard and seen. BFNC is thrilled to help fill an important gap in the Buffalo and Western New York communities through the Caring Together program. We look forward to expanding our work with area Caregivers,” stated Chandra Redfern, CEO of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers.

    Redfern adds that “the 3-year grant provides our agency with the opportunity to develop the Caring Together Program as a network to uplift and support caregivers in several communities.”

    In 2022, BFNC, in partnership with 4 community agencies, launched the Gathering Place program, which provided a two-pronged approach to supporting caregivers and their loved ones. This program continues as a FREE initiative providing support to family caregivers of older adults (aged 55 and older) in Western New York.

    The current Care Givers House services are offered at the BFNC Life Center at the Westminster Community on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12 pm-3 pm.

    The Care Givers program at the BFNC Life Center demonstrated clearly the importance of the initiative to caregivers and their loved ones.
    Redfern adds, “Unpaid caregivers are the backbone of community health and deserve an opportunity to release stressors.”

    The Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BFNC), a community-based agency, has a collaborative history of over 130 years of service to the Buffalo community. We provide a safety net of human services to assist residents of Erie and Niagara Counties on their path to success. Learn more at www.bfnc.org. Follow our stories on Facebook: buffalobfnc, on Instagram, and on LinkedIn. Listen to podcast conversations on the “BFNC Living podcast.”

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    About the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation
    The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is a grantmaking organization dedicated primarily to sustained investment in the quality of life of the people of Southeast Michigan and Western New York. The two areas reflect Ralph C. Wilson, Jr.’s devotion to his hometown of Detroit and greater Buffalo, home of his beloved Buffalo Bills NFL team. Prior to his passing in 2014, Mr. Wilson provided that a significant share of his estate be used to continue a life-long generosity of spirit by funding the Foundation that bears his name. Based in Detroit, the Foundation began with a $1.2 billion grantmaking capacity over a 20-year period, which expires on January 8, 2035. This structure is consistent with Mr. Wilson’s desire for the Foundation’s impact to be immediate, substantial, measurable, and overseen by those who knew him best. For more information, visit www.rcwjrf.org.
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    Media Contact: Jennifer Parker(JPC)- 716-866-4916                             Jparker@jparkerpr.com

    TELL US MORE!  SIGN UP BELOW FOR THE “CARING TOGETHER” PROGRAM 

    https://bfnc.jotform.com/scarter/bfnc-caregiver-support-program-inta

    HOW BFNC SUPPORT COMMUNITY - BTPM "WHAT'S NEXT" PODCAST EPISODE

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    Serving Buffalo families is not just our mission, it’s our history!

    Tune in to the ‘WHAT’S NEXT’ podcast episode to hear how we’re Committed to Serving Community: https://www.btpm.org/2026-03-09/how-neighborhood-centers-are-supporting-buffalo-families.

    https://www.btpm.org/2026-03-09/how-neighborhood-centers-are-supporting-buffalo-families

    Learn about our community pantry, BFNC FOOD SHARE and the NEW BFNC COMMUNITY RESOURCE ROOM.

     

    What’s Next? uncovers and discusses the issues and topics pertinent to marginalized and underrepresented populations of Western New York and Southern Ontario.

    Listen to the one-hour broadcast on Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am on BTPM NPR, with rebroadcasts on Sundays at 6pm. It is also available on-demand through our website, the BTPM Listen app, on our YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    We encourage our listeners to join the conversation by using the “Talk to Us” feature in the BTPM Listen app. ****By using this in-app feature, listeners can send audio recordings directly to the newsroom. You can also reach the production staff by emailing us at WhatsNext@btpm.org.

    BFNC FOCUS IS COMMUNITY - MOMMY MATTERS 2026

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    MOMMY MATTERS 2026 is OFF TO AN ENERGETIC START.

    Thank you To Our dedicated Community Sponsors and Supporters

    • THE HEALTH FOUNDATION for Western and Central New York 

    IC4U – Founder Lynn Parker

    A FREE PROGRAM FOR COMMUNITY MOMS.

    The BFNC MOMMY MATTERS WAS CREATED AS A FORUM TO ADDRESS TOPICS MOTHERS MAY WISH TO KNOW OR LEARN MORE ABOUT IN A COMFORTABLE SETTING. THE MONTHLY SESSIONS ARE  developed to provide Mothers a little time to enjoy themselves, connect with other mothers  and be energized by the presenters and their selected topics. GUESTS CAN ATTEND IN PERSON OR BY ZOOM.

    There are raffles, refreshments and other FREE surprises.

    FEBRUARY 26, 2026  Mothers experienced time to focus on their physical and mental health.

    FEEL THE ENERGY and FUN!

    https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Wt8BpnzcJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

     

     

    THERE ARE MORE GREAT SESSIONS SCHEDULED.  Follow Us on Social Media and the website for updates. PASS THE WORD! ATTEND  FOR YOUR SELF CARE!

     

    Ladies Enjoying the Movement

     

    BFNC Living Podcast Offers Life Solutions to Life Challenges

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    Please listen to the conversations about topics that may impact your life.  The goal is to provide assistance and help you navigate life obstacles.

    PLEASE LISTEN WHEN YOU CAN – BFNC LIVING IS A PODCAST DESIGNED TO HELP THE COMMUNITY WITH LIFE OBSTACLES. CHECK EVERY WEEK FOR A NEW EPISODE.

    WHERE CAN YOU HEAR EPISODES?  “BFNC Living” podcast episodes can be heard on Power 96.5 Power Podcasts, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Anchor Podcasts, Radio Public Podcasts, and YouTube.

    PLEASE LISTEN and SHARE.

     

    New Workshop: Mental Health and Trauma in Communities of Color - July 29

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    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers and Positive Steps Consulting 

    PRESENT

    THE FAITH COMMUNITY ROLE OR RESPONSIBILITY
    MENTAL HEALTH AND TRAUMA IN COMMUNITIES OF COLOR  

    A FREE WORKSHOP FOR THE FAITH COMMUNITY

    Date: July 29, 2023
    Time: Time: 9am – 12pm (Breakfast will be provided)
    Location: Mt. Olive Baptist Church 701 East Delavan Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215

    FREE COMMUNITY EVENT DESIGNED FOR faith- based and grassroots leaders and community members, behavioral health providers, volunteers, and caregivers.

    A FOCUS ON THE FAITH COMMUNITY: A workshop created for faith-based community leaders and
    members, grassroots leaders, behavioral health providers, and volunteers and caregivers that will provide resources and support in addressing mental wellness, and trauma in communities of color.

    WORKSHOP INCLUDES: Keynote speaker, Panel discussion, Breakfast and Engaging Discussions

    BE INSPIRED BY: Keynote Speaker, Dr. Myra Mathis, MD Myra L. Mathis, MD, is a faculty member and board-certified General Adult and Addiction Psychiatrist at the University of Rochester Department of Psychiatry. She is currently the Medical Director for Strong Recovery, UR Medicine  outpatient dual-
    diagnosis clinic which houses an Opioid Treatment Program and provides a full range of addiction and
    psychiatric services.

     

    JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
    PANEL DISCUSSION: Panelists include: Reverend Jeff Carter,  Pastor Shannon Carter and Charles
    Anthony Rice

    Reverend Jeff Carter is Pastor of Ephesus Ministries. Ephesus Ministries is a vibrant, community involved congregation on the east side of Buffalo. Ephesus is a church and a ministry on the “EDGE” – Evangelism, Discipleship, Growth, and Empowerment.

     

     

     

     

    Assistant Pastor Shannon L. Carter currently serves as an Elder, and Minister of Music. Shannon Carter is the founder of a Grief Symposium that allows people who are grieving and broken-hearted a chance to come together and find healing and wholeness.

     

     

     

    Charles Anthony Rice
    Charles is Community Engagement Specialist for NYS OMH Bureau of Crisis, Emergency and Stabilization Initiatives

     

     

    WHY THIS TRAINING IS IMPORTANT:
    The aftermath of the Tops Massacre on May 14, 2022 and persistent systemic racism has been
    devastating for East Buffalo communities and  now is the time to take bold and intentional action. This tragic incident provides an unprecedented opportunity to address mental health and trauma differently, with freshly informed equity lenses at all levels. This free intentional learning and community engagement opportunity is specifically for faith- based and grassroots leaders and community members, behavioral health providers, volunteers, and caregivers.

    Our goals and community learning objectives include:
    • Provide a cross system community educational opportunity to offer long-term strategies for
    addressing trauma and mental health in communities of color and highlight the diversity of
    needs related to “healing”
    • Improve awareness and understanding of needs related to mental health and trauma in the
    communities of color
    • Advance opportunities to address the intersection of Social Determinants of Health and
    Behavioral Health Care through the lens of Equity
    • To elevate community voices across systems with intentional and targeted goals of promoting
    neighborhood outreach models that include natural healers
     To provide a forum to build collaborative partnerships that elevate the voices of patients,
    parents, caregivers, faith leaders and grassroots neighborhood centers to inform and improve
    policies and practices through system change and collective impact activities.

    PLEASE RSVP by July 26, 2023 to hisom@bfnc.org

    REGISTER –https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-together-faith-community-role-or-responsibility-in-mental-wellness-tickets-670462991857?aff=oddtdtcreator

    DOWNLOAD and PRINT FLYER

    BFNC BIPOC flyer_July29final2

    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers logo, Buffalo NY

    BFNC’s doors are open to all people and communities – helping them navigate a path from where they are to where they want to be.

    CONTACT BFNC

    716.852.5065

    2365 Main Street
    Buffalo, NY 14214

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