Good morning, Erie.

Tuesday night at midnight, Erie Gives raised a preliminary total of $11,059,729 from 11,298 donors for 546 local non-profits—Mercy Center for Women and ANNA Shelter led the count, and the Erie Community Foundation will process more gifts with final results expected in late September.

Shateria A. Franklin, founder of Destiny of Our Daughters, spoke ahead of Erie Gives Day 2026 about empowering local youth + strengthening community ties, reflecting Erie's tradition of generous giving.

Erie's unique giving culture keeps its nonprofit sector strong by uniting community members and local groups.

This long-standing tradition boosts new projects and partnerships that benefit residents across the city.

Fourteen local food trucks and nearby restaurants will serve Perry Square for CelebrateErie from Aug.

14 to 16, with live music and vendor booths adding to the festivities.

Millcreek Township General Authority will host a public open house for the Presque Isle Gateway District on Sept.

2 from 4 to 6 p.m. (at Erie County Community College) where residents can meet the development team and share feedback to guide future public amenities.

Erie has secured a new City Revitalization and Improvement Zone program that approved five projects yielding over $150 million for downtown and the bayfront.

City leaders now must act quickly to develop viable projects before unspent tax revenues return to the state.

Families considering adoption in Pennsylvania are advised to choose in-state licensed agencies to avoid high upfront fees and other red flags, as some providers charge large sums before matching.

Experts suggest verifying agency credentials with the state’s online tool+ ensuring fees align with established guidelines.

The KFC at 1116 Parade St. was closed on Aug.

10 for lacking proper hot and cold water, adding to issues at a Peach St. location that reopened quickly. Health officials met with management & are monitoring improvements at all owned restaurants.

Jacob Zietz recounted his devastating injury + shared his move to become a football coach.

He said his new role will guide local players to build their skills.