CM James On Protecting Our Seniors

Dear New Yorker:

As you well know, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s FY 2011-2012 budget would allocate a cut of over $25M in Federal Title XX funding to senior centers. Title XX is funding administered by the Social Security Act of the United States Department of Health and Human Services: Administration for Children and Families, and the Office of Community Services.

This dramatic cut in statewide funding would close 105 of 256 senior centers throughout New York City; two within the 35th District that I represent. An estimated 7,000 to 10,000 older New Yorkers would lose their local senior center. It is a fact that senior centers keep older adults healthy, engaged, and active as they progress into their golden years. Many seniors also rely on these centers for meals, social activities, and companionship.

This proposed loss of $25.2M in the Department for the Aging (DFTA) senior center budget equates to an estimated 1/3 of overall funding for senior centers. This is a completely unacceptable proposal, and I stand strong with my colleagues in the New York City Council, as well as on the state level, in opposing a budget cut that would put thousands of seniors at risk of hunger and social isolation.

I ask you to join me by contacting Governor Cuomo by phone at (518) 474-8390, or by mail at:
The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo
Governor of New York State
NYS State Capitol Building
Albany, NY 12224

Sincerely,

Letitia James

Member of the City Council