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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Zhikang Ling, Center Director of Homecrest Community Services, Bensonhurst Older Adult Center
5:09:07
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117 sec
Zhikang Ling, Center Director of Homecrest Community Services' Bensonhurst Older Adult Center, testifies about the growing needs of older adults and the importance of funding for older adult centers. He urges the council to invest more in these services despite the recent decision not to implement previously proposed budget cuts.
- The center serves hundreds of older adults with meals, social services, fitness classes, and community activities.
- Ling emphasizes the critical role of these services in combating food insecurity, isolation, and health challenges among the older population.
- He calls for increased funding to retain and hire staff, expand programs, and address mental health needs in light of New York City's rapidly growing aging population.
Zhikang Ling
5:09:07
Good afternoon Chair Hudson, Chair Brennan.
5:09:10
My name is Jee Kang Ling.
5:09:12
I'm the center director of Homecrest Community Services, Bensonhurst Older Adult Center, funded by NYC AG.
5:09:20
I have worked at the center for twelve years, from a part time program assistant to a center director.
5:09:27
From all my experience, I see the needs of older adults are growing each year.
5:09:33
Whether it's access to nutritious food, diverse program, or simply a safe space that where they feel seen and supported.
5:09:43
Our center serves hundreds of older adults each with with meals, social services, fitness classes, and community activities.
5:09:53
We see daily how vital these services are for combating first securities, isolations, and health challenges among our older population.
5:10:05
We are very grateful that most recent executive budget did not move forward with the previously proposed $100,000,000 cut to aging services.
5:10:17
The decision recognized the critical role these services play in the lives of older New Yorkers.
5:10:25
But still, New York City's aging population is one of the fastest growing group.
5:10:31
We urge the council to further invest in older adult centers to help us retain and hire staff, expand programs, and address mental health needs.
5:10:45
Supporting older adult centers is an investment in well-being, communities, and dignity.
5:10:53
We respectfully urge you to prioritize funding for older adults in the city's budget.
5:11:00
Thank you for your continued commitment to New York City's older adults.