KeyBank Foundation Grants $300K to Family Promise of WNY for Expanding Family Shelter Services
Family Promise of WNY, an emergency shelter dedicated to assisting homeless families, has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the KeyBank Foundation to be distributed over the next three years.
This is the largest donation in the organization's history and will be used to enhance its capacity as it works on developing a second emergency family shelter in Buffalo. Scheduled to open in 2027, the new facility will more than double the organization's ability to support homeless families in Erie County. The grant will also fund two critical new roles: a Housing Specialist, who will focus on helping families secure permanent housing, and a Development Director, who will strengthen the organization’s financial stability.
“Family homelessness in our community is at a crisis level. On any given night, over 100 families need shelter, but space is simply unavailable,” said Luanne Firestone, Executive Director of Family Promise. “This grant from KeyBank Foundation is transformative for our small but growing organization. It will help us house families more quickly and lay a strong foundation for expanding our services in the future.”
KeyBank Buffalo Market President Michael McMahon emphasized the importance of Family Promise’s mission, stating, “Family Promise of WNY plays a crucial role in keeping homeless families together while providing emergency shelter and support. Their work brings hope to children and families, and we’re proud to help them expand their reach.”
Chiwuike Owunwanne, KeyBank Buffalo Corporate Responsibility Officer, added, “This grant reflects KeyBank’s commitment to building partnerships in the communities we serve. Stable housing is the first step toward breaking the cycle of homelessness, offering families a chance for a brighter future.”
Family Promise of WNY is one of only two emergency family shelters in Erie County that ensures families can stay together during their time of need. Notably, children make up over 70% of those they serve.
This is the largest donation in the organization's history and will be used to enhance its capacity as it works on developing a second emergency family shelter in Buffalo. Scheduled to open in 2027, the new facility will more than double the organization's ability to support homeless families in Erie County. The grant will also fund two critical new roles: a Housing Specialist, who will focus on helping families secure permanent housing, and a Development Director, who will strengthen the organization’s financial stability.
“Family homelessness in our community is at a crisis level. On any given night, over 100 families need shelter, but space is simply unavailable,” said Luanne Firestone, Executive Director of Family Promise. “This grant from KeyBank Foundation is transformative for our small but growing organization. It will help us house families more quickly and lay a strong foundation for expanding our services in the future.”
KeyBank Buffalo Market President Michael McMahon emphasized the importance of Family Promise’s mission, stating, “Family Promise of WNY plays a crucial role in keeping homeless families together while providing emergency shelter and support. Their work brings hope to children and families, and we’re proud to help them expand their reach.”
Chiwuike Owunwanne, KeyBank Buffalo Corporate Responsibility Officer, added, “This grant reflects KeyBank’s commitment to building partnerships in the communities we serve. Stable housing is the first step toward breaking the cycle of homelessness, offering families a chance for a brighter future.”
Family Promise of WNY is one of only two emergency family shelters in Erie County that ensures families can stay together during their time of need. Notably, children make up over 70% of those they serve.
Companies