Tue, January 13, 2026
Mon, January 12, 2026

Yates Community Service Receives $75,000 Boost

Yates, NY - January 13th, 2026 - Yates Community Service (YCS), a cornerstone of social support in Yates County for over three decades, is experiencing a period of renewed strength thanks to a substantial wave of donations exceeding $75,000. This philanthropic boost arrives at a crucial time, allowing YCS to significantly amplify its efforts to address pressing community needs including food insecurity, precarious housing situations, and a lack of opportunities for young people.

Sarah Miller, Executive Director of YCS, expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support. "The generosity demonstrated by our community is truly remarkable," Miller stated. "These funds aren't just numbers; they represent hope and stability for individuals and families facing considerable challenges. They will directly enable us to extend our reach and make a real difference in people's lives."

The $75,000 windfall will be strategically directed towards three core areas of YCS's programming. Food Pantry Expansion will see an immediate increase in available food supplies and a rise in distribution frequency. Given the ongoing economic pressures felt within the county, access to nutritious food remains a paramount concern. The expanded pantry aims to alleviate this burden for vulnerable families and individuals.

Equally critical is the support for Emergency Housing Assistance. Yates County, like many rural areas, has faced a growing crisis of housing affordability and stability. The additional funds will facilitate the provision of temporary shelter and rental assistance, helping families avert eviction and regain a foundation of security. The program aims to prevent homelessness and provide a pathway toward sustainable housing solutions. YCS staff note a worrying increase in requests for housing assistance in the past year, making these funds especially timely.

Finally, the Youth Mentorship Program will experience significant growth. Recognizing the crucial role positive mentorship plays in shaping young lives, YCS is committed to reaching more at-risk youth in the county. Expanding this program means providing more young people with guidance, support, and opportunities for personal and academic development, setting them on a trajectory toward brighter futures. Experts agree that early intervention and mentorship are vital components of youth development, particularly in underserved communities.

The impressive fundraising effort wasn't the result of a single source, but a collaborative community response. Individual donors, local businesses demonstrating corporate social responsibility, and the success of a fundraising event held in December all contributed to the total. Lakeview Farms, a significant agricultural employer in Yates County, and Finger Lakes Insurance, a local business providing essential services to the community, were specifically acknowledged as key contributors. These partnerships underscore the importance of collaboration between non-profit organizations and local businesses to address community needs.

Looking ahead, Miller emphasized the persistent challenges facing Yates County and the ongoing need for community support. "While these donations provide a vital lifeline, the demand for our services remains high. We are deeply committed to administering these funds responsibly and ensuring they create tangible and lasting positive change in the lives of our neighbors." She encouraged residents and businesses to continue supporting YCS through donations and volunteerism. The organization is actively seeking volunteers for all three program areas - food pantry assistance, housing support, and youth mentorship - highlighting the opportunity for community members to become directly involved in addressing local needs. To learn more about Yates Community Service, including program details and donation options, please visit [ www.yatescommunityservice.org ].


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[ https://www.fingerlakes1.com/2026/01/12/donations-boost-yates-services/ ]