Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz has announced his appointment of Marie Cannon as Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Social Services. Cannon has served as Acting Commissioner since December 2017 and has been the First Deputy Commissioner of the department since 2014. In that role Cannon had oversight of more than 700 staff in programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (“TANF”), Medicaid, Day Care, HEAP, Homeless Services, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”), and several others.  Her leadership of the department’s Summer Youth Employment Program resulted in over 700 youth taking part in the Program, which is supported by educational opportunities and is now being recommended as a best-practice model.

“Mrs. Cannon has provided continuous leadership, guidance, and creativity to the department of Social Services since she joined us in 2014, impacting thousands of lives and making a positive difference in our community. She is an unflappable and conscientious worker who takes care of her employees as well as the people they serve, leading with integrity and compassion,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Marie’s experience and knowledge of the department and the community will be invaluable in creating a Social Services department that is more responsive, responsible, and ready to serve our community. I look forward to working with her as Commissioner.”

“I look forward to working with the County Executive, County Legislature, and other community stakeholders in improving the lives of Erie County residents,” Cannon added. “It has been my life’s work to help children and families in difficult circumstances I am proud to lead such a dedicated and hardworking workforce at such a critical time in Erie County. In my role, I hope to strengthen community collaborations and improve customer service.”

Cannon’s appointment to Commissioner now heads to the Erie County Legislature for approval.

# # #