Yesterday, I received an interesting email from Linda Freidenberg of the Community Action Organization. It introduced me to an agency that is doing important work in some of Buffalo's communities. Further inquiry led me to Sharon Benz of the Daemen College Center for Sustainable Communities and Civic Engagement.
Ms. Benz explained to me that the Center’s function is to connect students and faculty members with communities engaged in projects that revitalize their neighborhoods. Seneca Babcock, the Fruit Belt and the West Side’s immigrant community have thus far been the areas where the Center has concentrated its efforts. On December 9th, the Center will offer free credit counseling and homeownership information to anyone that wishes to participate. This program has been made possible by a grant from Fannie Mae.
“Homeownership is a key to sustaining and stabilizing communities. The presenter, Mrs. Ida Thomas, works for Ellicott Development and has 18 years of experience in this area,” said Ms. Benz. Other current projects include an after school program and helping Mrs. Ware & the Friendly Fruit Belt maintain community gardens (weather permitting).
“Additionally, Daemen College, Fruit Belt United, Friendly Fruit Belt Block Club, UB Community Economic Development Clinic, Teen Challenge and the Locust Street Art School applied, and were granted a KaBoom playground worth $35,000 located at 161 Mulberry Street. Home Depot of Buffalo was our local donor,” concluded Ms. Benz.
Keep an eye out for further posts regarding the efforts that this organization is making in our community.
Saturday's program takes place between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm at the Reverend Dr. Bennett W. Smith, Jr. Family Life Center located at 833 Michigan Avenue.
Those who wish to participate can register by leaving their name at 716-839-8524.
Images from Community Action Organization Site