Council Member Joseph C. Borelli (R-South Shore) is announcing today that he has allocated $300,000 in funding for Staten Island seniors in fiscal year 2019. The funds will be used to bring cultural programming to senior centers in the Council Member’s district.
The programming enhancements will include: a horticulture program at Lifestyles for the Disabled; a nutritional support program for the Korean American Senior Citizens Association of New York; coach-led exercises and workshops at south shore senior centers led by the New York Road Runners; the Bea Victor Senior Olympics at the Jewish Community Center; monthly safety and security workshops for seniors run by the Verrazano 10-13 Association; supplies and diverse programming at Staten Island’s south shore Friendship Clubs; enhanced transportation for the Community Agency for Senior Citizens, and many more.
“We have wonderful community groups here on Staten Island which provide stimulating, engaging programming for our senior population,” said Council Member Joe Borelli. “From gardening programs to nutritional support initiatives to resident artists at senior centers, south shore seniors are well-supported by their community and this year is the highest-ever level of funding they’ve received. I look forward to visiting!”
“We’re so honored to be included among the worthy recipients of support from Council Member Borelli,” said Rachel Pratt, senior vice president of youth and community services at New York Road Runners. “The Council Member’s contribution will help New York Road Runners grow NYRR Striders, a free program that aims to improve attitudes toward exercise and make running and walking more accessible for older adults in senior centers, neighborhood facilities, and local parks across New York City’s five boroughs.”
“We’re so grateful for the funding Council Member Borelli provides for us. This year we will reach even more seniors with our program which provides free meals for seniors in need,” said Eric Kim, President of the Korean American Senior Citizens Association.
“CASC would like to thank Councilman Borelli for his ongoing support of the CASC Transportation Program for Seniors,” said Nikki Odvilak, CEO of the Community Agency for Senior Citizens. “With the ever-increasing senior population on Staten Island and the limited public transportation availability in many neighborhoods, CASC Senior Transportation fills the need to assist seniors continue to be independent by providing fixed routes to grocery stores, banks, pharmacies, neighborhood senior centers, recreational trips and some limited medical transportation for seniors who do not qualify for NYC MTA Access-A-Ride.