On Monday, Sept. 22, Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens and Queens Councilman Eric A. Ulrich held a press conference to announce city funding to support bus service for seniors at four CCBQ centers in District 32 — Howard Beach, Woodhaven, Rockaway Beach and Ozone Park.
Ulrich allocated $25,000 for a driver to transport older adults from their homes to the Senior Centers where they can take part in a variety of recreational activities including yoga, Zumba, dance and meditation. Additionally, the van will be used for day trips to shopping centers, farmers markets, parks, sporting events and other destinations. Daniel Persaud was appointed as the driver; he previously worked for the Catholic Charities Northeast Queens Home-Delivered Meals program.
This transportation is especially important in areas where older adults are still feeling the isolating effects of Super Storm Sandy.
“Our seniors deserve better transportation options,” said Councilman Eric Ulrich. “Since Hurricane Sandy, far too many of our elderly friends and neighbors have become isolated in their homes or apartments. This shuttle bus service will ensure that our seniors have direct access to senior centers and the vital services and programs they provide.”
There are many older adults registered to use the van to get to and from their Centers a few times a week as well as others who are still in the registration process. The van was already put to use taking a group to the Department of Motor Vehicles and an art class to a sketch outing.
“We are delighted again to partner with Councilman Ulrich who always responds with conviction to the needs of the older adults in the community. We are grateful for his response in providing additional transportation for the seniors in the South West Queens area; this certainly enhances the ability of our seniors to live independently and increase the quality of their lives,” said Judy Kleve, Vice President for Catholic Charities Older Adult Services.
Councilman Ulrich was joined by Debra Hoffer – Director of Field Operations for Catholic Charities, Edna Dzigas – President of the Howard Beach Advisory Council, facility employees and seniors from the center.
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