Centers Once Slated to Close are Now Life Saving Cooling StationsHomebound elderly at risk during a heat wave. In the cooler part of the year, the state proposed closing 105 senior centers city wide. Now as NYC is facing in its first heat wave of 2011, senior centers are being designated as cooling stations.
By: CSCS The frail, elderly, homebound senior is at risk in this heat wave because Mayor Bloomberg has proposed a $6.6 million (a 30%) cut to case management, which would result in over 100 social workers being laid off as of July 1. Case managers go into the homes of homebound seniors and/or call them to make sure they are ok, especially during extreme weather conditions. Bobbie Sackman, director of public policy, CSCS, states: “using a senior center as a cooling station is another reason why senior services are vital to this city. However, we must remember the homebound elderly who may not have an air-conditioner or a fan. In addition, thousands of seniors live on a fixed income and may be limited because of the financial cost. This is a reason why the city must not cut case management and senior centers as the services they provide may literally save someone’s life. We urge every New Yorker to call Mayor Bloomberg at 311 and their council members to ensure that there are NO cuts to senior services.” To find a cooling stations near you visit http://gis.nyc.gov/ The Council of Senior Centers and Services (CSCS) promotes the quality of life, independent living, productivity, and dignity of mature older adults principally in New York City. CSCS champions elder rights. For a full list of the $39 million in cuts go to cscs-ny.org. # # # The Council of Senior Centers and Services (CSCS) promotes the quality of life, independent living, productivity, and dignity of mature older adults principally in New York City. CSCS champions elder rights. visit the CSCS web site at cscs-ny.org. End
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