Senator Serrano Fights to Keep Senior Centers Open

Senator José M. Serrano joined Senator Ruben Diaz, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., and their colleagues in government on the steps of Bronx Borough Hall today to address the devastating budget proposal that would close 105 senior centers in New York City - 7 of which are located in the 28th Senate District.

In the current state budget proposal, there are significant cuts that would negatively impact funding for senior centers throughout New York City. In the areas represented by Senator Serrano – East Harlem, Yorkville, Roosevelt Island and the South Bronx – senior citizens are already experiencing economic hardships and the closure of needed senior centers will only add to that burden.

"Our Greatest Generation deserves better than this," said Senator Serrano as he addressed a large crowd of senior citizens in attendance. "The prospect of closing these vital senior centers in the poorest of communities is appalling and we must fight to keep them open."

Visiting several centers throughout the district, the Senator has seen the beneficial impact they have on our elder population by providing meals, building companionships and creating a safe environment.

"Our great city has grown because of their hard work and ingenuity, and we must ensure that our senior citizens have the basic services they need," said the Senator. "I will work diligently with my colleagues to develop a budget that is cognizant of the needs of all New Yorkers. We must be careful to develop a budget that doesn’t hurt our most vulnerable population. Many thanks to Senator Ruben Diaz for organizing today's press conference and for being a staunch advocate for our senior citizens."

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