SENATOR GOLDEN AND ASSEMBLYWOMAN MALLIOTAKIS ISSUE STATEMENT CALLING FOR FUNDING FOR SENIOR SERVICES TO BE MAINTAINED

New York – State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn), a former Chairman of the State Senate Aging Committee, and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-C, Brooklyn, Staten Island) today are calling on Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to preserve Title XX funding in this year’s State budget to maintain vital senior services and keep senior centers open throughout the five boroughs.

“I am urging Governor Andrew Cuomo not to cut Title XX funding for senior centers in this year’s New York State budget. I agree that we need more money for childcare services but we must not adversely impact New York's senior population and the services they deserve.  We had this same fight before and we were successful in saving senior centers from closing. I will continue to be on the front lines of this battle fighting for our seniors and fighting for our children. I will not vote for any budget that does not financially support important senior services and vital childcare services," saidSenator Marty Golden.

“It is outrageous that despite this year's budget increasing, Governor Cuomo is looking to shortchange seniors by diverting funding for senior centers.  I will not stand aside while senior centers in my community risk seeing their doors closed.  These seniors have spent their entire lives paying taxes and building our community, and government has an obligation to ensure that their needs are properly met.  I will continue to fight alongside Senator Golden to ensure our senior centers remain open and funded,” said Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis. 

The planned reductions proposed by Governor Cuomo would eliminate more than $17 million from New York City senior centers and force the New York City to close more than 65 senior centers.

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