By Amanda Moses
May is Older American Month, and in honor of this observance New York State Senator Roxanne Persaud hosted a meet and greet with member of JASA Starrett Center in the lower lobby of the Brooklyn Sports Club (BSC) on May 13. As the older adults dined on their lunch, they were able to discuss their concerns with the senator as well as receive pertinent information about upcoming events within the East New York/Canarsie community.
For Persaud, events like these are important so that her constituents know that her office is always able available to them and if it is beyond her legislative powers she will help steer them in the right direction.
“It’s older adults month in the in the country and so we were trying to celebrate our seniors. I’ve been going around to different senior centers, and having conversations with the seniors and to find out what are their issues, and you know how to address them and just have some fun with them,” Persaud said.
Persaud also underscored that some seniors tend to feel too proud to apply for benefit services, such as SNAP. But she assures them that there is no shame in receiving government benefits if they need them, stating that is what they are there for—to provide aid.
“I think it is very important to have events like this. It encourages the older adults in our community to be involved in what their representatives have to say and what is important to them. It gives them a rare opportunity to be upfront and personal with their questions and concerns in a setting that is familiar to them.,” JASA Director, Donna Forde said.
Shirley J. Hatcher was thrilled to see her senator at JASA, which she says provides a level of comfort to her that her voice will be heard.
“It was wonderful to have her here. I mean just to the see the picture of them is one thing, but to interact and talk to her and see what she’s doing for us and, being involved in to the community is very big. I appreciate the hands on,” Hatcher said.
Hatcher also expressed her excitement upon learning about Senator Persaud’s upcoming shredding and e-waste event on May 21 between 10am to 1pm at 1223 East 96th Street.
“Now, I’m really happy. I need that,” Hatcher exclaimed.
Photo by Amanda Moses
