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    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

    BFNC Continues to Serve Community: Youth/Mother/Senior Programs in 2025

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    ABOUT BFNC:
    The Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, a community-based agency, has a collaborative history of over 130 years serving the Buffalo community. We provide a safety net of human services to assist Erie and Niagara Counties residents on their path to success.

    2025 ANNOUNCEMENTS

    1. We are proud to announce an expansion of the BFNC Mommy Matters Program.
    2. BFNC INTRODUCES YOUTH MATTERS: Youth Conversations – A VISION COMES FULL CIRCLE

    OFFERING A SAFE SPACE for Youth ages 12 and up  to share their life concerns and share their voices on a list of topics that they face in life.

    A safe space to discuss life
    • Age– 12 and up
    • Bi-weekly Sessions
    • Each session starts at 5pm & ends around 7pm
    • Location:
    Urban Christian Ministries
    967 Jefferson Avenue
    Buffalo, NY 14204

    3. BFNC LIFE CENTER Introduces a new empowering Opportunity for Community Older Adults THE BFNC and AmeriCorps SENIOR COMPANION PROJECT

    WE THANK OUR COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS FOR HELPING US PROVIDE PROGRAMS THAT HELP ASSIST and UPLIFT COMMUNITY MEMBERS.

     

    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers to Provide Community Engagement to East Buffalo Residents

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    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers to Provide Community Engagement to East Buffalo Residents

    ASSISTANCE TO RESIDENTS LIVING IN ZIP CODES 14204,14208, 14209, 14211,14212 and 14215. .

    New York State Listened and Now has established a project that is focused on providing timely targeted assistance to the residents of East Buffalo, a community that has been greatly impacted by a racially motivated mass shooting on May 14, 2022.  Staff from New York State, the City of Buffalo, Erie County, and numerous nonprofit community providers are working together to fill a community need.

    The goal of the program is to increase community members’ awareness of available benefits and resources and provide coordinated assistance to direct residents in need to community services.

    The community identified a need to increase the engagement of residents to help them access available benefits and services that can help them heal and improve their economic well-being.  Prior outreach identified spiritual support, food assistance and basic needs assistance as common needs among residents.

    How We Will Make IMPACT
    The participating organizations and municipalities will coordinate crisis assistance by providing door-to-door outreach to identify and address resident needs.

    FILLING A NEED WITH A FOCUS ON LIFTING OTHERS OUT OF POVERTY
    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers Inc., (BFNC) will provide ‘door to door’ canvassing of households in East Buffalo, with a focus on the 14204,14208, 14209, 14211,14212 and 14215 zip codes to provide information about available benefits and services.

    “This is a perfect project for our community-based agency, and we are proud and energized by the opportunity to make an impact. We continue to reimagine services to a changing community.  This Project allows us to meet residents who may need assistance where they are, stated Chandra Redfern. CEO of Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers.

    Redfern adds,” The customer service focused and helping hand are empowering.”

    SERVICES OFFERED:
    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers Inc., (BFNC) will provide ‘door to door’ canvassing of households in East Buffalo, with a focus on the 14204,14208, 14209, 14211,14212 and 14215 zip codes to provide information about available benefits and services.

    Where appropriate, BFNC will work with the adults and families, so they are aware of the following services:

      *   Mental health and behavioral health services

    *   Referrals for care management

    *   Access to socialization activities

    *   Public Assistance

    *   Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

    *   Utility assistance including the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) signing up for ongoing Energy Affordability Program benefits.

    *   Health insurance coverage, including assistance through Medicaid, Child Health Plus and other programs.

    *   Rental arrears assistance and/or mortgage assistance

    *   Property tax relief through STAR

    *   Assistance with housing code compliance

    BFNC will coordinate with other identified community-based providers and faith based community to offer follow-up services based on identified needs.

    CALL: (716) 852-5065 & ASK FOR OUTREACH.

     

    THE EXHALE PROGRAM: Caregivers, You Deserve the Time to Exhale

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    CAREGIVERS, YOU DESERVE TIME TO EXHALE
    Introducing The Gathering Place – Senior Respite Program

    We invite your loved ones to experience “THE GATHERING PLACE” at The BFNC Life Center @ Westminster Community House.

    WHAT IS THE GATHERING PLACE?

    A program designed to provide fun and uplifting activities created for seniors and offers much needed help for their caregivers. If you need a break, or just

    need to run errands during the day, or simply take a moment to yourself on Saturday mornings.

    • FOR SENIORS 55 and Older
    • A FREE PROGRAM – No cost to participate
    • Planned fun activities designed for seniors and Caregivers
    • Seniors enjoy time with others in a safe environment
    • Convenient locations in Buffalo: the BFNC Life Center @ Westminster Community House, the and the Schiller Park Senior Center.
    THE GATHERING PLACE at BFNC is open for services.

    WHERE: The BFNC Life Center @ Westminster Community House
    419 Monroe Street – Buffalo, NY 14212

    *** For more information, please call the BFNC Life Center at 716-852-5065 ext. 132.***

     

    FILL OUT OUR INFORMATION REQUEST FORM HERE

     

    A REGIONAL COLLABORATION created by five community-based organizations: Collaborating partners are BFNC, Seneca Babcock Association @ Schiller Park Senior Center, Erie County Senior Services, Hearts & Hands and Clinical 

        

     

    Watch a short video showing a relaxing Yoga session for seniors:  IMG_1033

    EXHALE PROGRAM OVERVIEW and WAYS TO VOLUNTEER
    https://hnhcares.org/exhale-program/

    Download Flyer ExhaleFlyerFinal_BFNC_RevOct

    The EXHALE Respite Programs:   

    Schiller Park Senior Center Respite
    (Seneca – Babcock  Community Association, Inc. at Schiller Park Senior Center

    BFNC- Life Center

    Call 716-852-5065 ext. 132 for details. 

    BFNC LIVING: After the Podcast Talk

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    Sometimes the conversation continues.  More information to help.
    In this video, guest, Ava Thomas, Operations Manager, Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. and the BFNC host, Daysi Ball, BFNC Director Hope Center Economic Impact Programs & Senior Support Services continues the discussion about the Red Flags to know about Domestic Abuse/ Violence.

    Episode 3 (Season 2) – IS IT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE? Learn the “Red Flags” of an unhealthy relationship and how to help a family member or friend who may be unsafe. www.bfnc.org

    Family Justice Center: https://fjcsafe.org/

    SUMMER 2022 Newsletter: A Great Read About Services & Our Updates

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    Enjoy Viewing select photos  and brief reading about how BFNC is Reimagining Community Service. 

     Click to Read or download. BFNC_Summer Brochure_single pages

    BFNC '“You Matter” Fund: To Help Provide Community Transportation Service

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    BUFFALO FEDERATION OF NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS
    HAS DEVELOPED A “YOU MATTER” FUND TO ADDRESS TRANSPORTATION NEEDS OF RESIDENTS LIVING IN THE FRUITBELT and OTHER EASTSIDE COMMUNITIES

    BFNC FUND TO HELP PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION TO ACCESS GROCERY SHOPPING and HEALTH CARE SERVICES

    Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BFNC) has established a fund to help the Fruit Belt and other east side residents who shop at the Tops Market on Jefferson Avenue. Recognizing the importance of serving community members living in the Fruit Belt and surrounding East Side neighborhoods, the BFNC CEO, Chandra Redfern saw a need for the agency to fill a much-needed service gap.

    “BFNC has observed the impact to the community from the tragic mass shooting on Saturday.
    As a result, the local Tops Supermarket that served as the only viable food source for many East Side residents is currently closed. This has not only affected the residents in the zip codes 14208 and 14209, but the impact is also being felt by residents residing in the Fruitbelt and several neighborhoods on the East Side such as the 14204 and 14212 neighborhoods,” stated Chandra Redfern, BFNC CEO.

    Redfern adds, “We see the growing needs as the number of BFNC Pantry shoppers increase weekly and the increase in calls for youth support services, care management and residential services.”

    The BFNC “You Matter” Fund will address transportation needs to access other community grocery stores and transportation for those in need of mental health services to address the trauma caused by the Mass Shooting.

    DETAILS ABOUT THE BFNC TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE

    • The Transportation assistance is for grocery shopping, physical and mental health appointments for residents living in 14204 and 14212.
    • For more information or to schedule a ride contact Letrice at 716-856-0363
    • There is a limit of 8 rides per month per customer.
    • Participants will have access to rides from BFNC volunteers or a taxi service that the agency has retained to provide transportation.

    Donations to the fund can be made on the BFNC website at:  https://bfnc.org/how-to-help/ways-to-donate/ or call 716-856-0363.

    About Buffalo Federation of Community Centers (BFNC): BFNC assists community members with overcoming life obstacles. BFNC has over 125 years of serving the Buffalo community and providing a safety-net of human services to assist residents with mental illness, substance abuse, affordable housing, financial training, and tax assistance. We also provide quality youth programming and services that assist and provide guidance as they create their paths to success. Learn more at www.bfnc.org.  Follow our stories on Facebook: buffalobfnc, LinkedIn and Tik Tok @BFNC716

    Media Contact: Jennifer J Parker – jparker@jparkerpr.com
    716-866-4916

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    Caregivers – How are you?

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    This is a question the BFNC Director leading the Age Mastery Series for Care Givers would like to know.  According to the National Council of Aging, approximately 40 million Americans provide unpaid care to older adults and adults with disabilities—the majority of whom also juggle a job or other responsibilities.

    This important responsibility can be overwhelming for many of us.  The April 11, 2022, Zoom Discussion at 6:00 pm is about how to create a plan to take care of you and your loved one.  Care Givers Share is an interactive discussion designed for caregivers.

    During the workshop participants will hear Caregivers and senior resource experts share how to manage your life as a caregiver – Life lessons learned.

    • Panelists will share strategies, tools, and resources for coping with stress and exhaustion.
    • Learn about local resources where you can receive assistance
    • Learn ways you can Take Care of You.
    • Resource Experts and Caregivers can answer your questions.

    YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

    REGISTER FOR THE APRIL 11 DISCUSSION: Enjoy this session in the comforts of your home. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/caregivers-share-tickets-312953431137

     

    LISTEN WHEN YOU HAVE TIME TO LISTEN!

    GREAT PODCAST DISCUSSION ABOUT HELPING CAREGIVERS: “BFNC LIVING”
    EPISODE I – HELPING CAREGIVERS https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bfnc-living-ep1/id1599341227?i=1000556455269

     

    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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