SENATOR JEFF KLEIN ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR OUTREACH EFFORTS FOR LGBT ELDERS LIVING IN THE BRONX

Bronx, NY — State Senator Jeff Klein (D- Bronx/Westchester) announced $150,000 in funding for Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders today at SAGE Center Bronx.

In recognition of National Coming Out Day, on Tuesday, October 11, Senator Klein and Councilman Ritchie Torres joined SAGE’s CEO Michael Adams at SAGE’s Bronx headquarters and announced the funding for outreach efforts for LGBT older adults living in the borough.

Senator Klein’s funding allocation will be used for extensive outreach to older LGBT Bronx residents informing them of the services available for them at SAGE’s Bronx center. SAGE Center Bronx offers LGBT older adults in the Bronx a comprehensive set of direct and supportive services. Older adults also have access to health care right on site at the Union Community Health Center. SAGE’s also offers support groups for caregiving, bereavement, HIV, cancer, depression and anxiety, breaking social isolation, and much more. Social workers and case managers are available to offer assistance with many day to day issues and benefits and entitlements assistance.

“I am so proud that my $150,000 in funding will provide our LGBT seniors with access to SAGE’s valuable services. It’s so important that our LGBT seniors spend their golden years with friends and receive the support they need. Seniors can engage in social and cultural activities, utilize the computer center for educational purposes, and enjoy hot nutritious lunches.  SAGE truly meets the needs of our LBGT senior population,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

“LGBT elders face a number of issues that they must confront, oftentimes alone and without resources. SAGE’s work and advocacy efforts ensure that this population confront their older years with dignity and respect, and Senator Klein’s leadership in securing $150,000 for SAGE is crucial to make sure this work moves forward. I thank Senator Klein for his support of this important organization and look forward to working with SAGE to protect LGBT elders in the Bronx and across New York City,” said Councilman Ritchie Torres.

“LGBT elders in the Bronx are fortunate to have an amazing champion in Senator Jeff Klein,” said Michael Adams, Chief Executive Officer of SAGE. “Funds provided by Senator Klein will support outreach to ensure that a growing number of LGBT older Bronxites have access to LGBT-welcoming services at SAGE Center Bronx.”

“This SAGE Center is so important. It gives us a place to socialize, cares for our services, exercise, health issues. SAGE helps us do all these things and more. For example this recent housing initiative that is so important to this community, LGBT housing where we can be comfortable and safe, SAGE provides that for us. SAGE Bronx is like a little family. A lot of us don't have family, but this is our family. SAGE provides one for us, which is so important,” Marie Spivey, SAGE Center Bronx participant.