CSCS: Council of Senior Centers and Services of NYC, Inc.

Action Alert

Printable Verison for this Alert note: acrobat format

ACTION ALERT
November 22, 2011

NO CUTS TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR THE AGING!
ADVOCACY WORKS!

• No cuts to DFTA! In recognition of the valuable community-based services provided to older New Yorkers including senior centers, case management, home care, elder abuse, NORCs, and other programs, Mayor Michael Bloomberg has exempted the Department for the Aging (DFTA) from any mid-year cuts for FY12 and any cuts for FY13 which begins July 2, 2012. This means no city DFTA cuts from now through June 30, 2013.

• Landmark decision! After the loss of $55 million in city funding to DFTA in recent years, this is a welcomed decision. CSCS is appreciative that Mayor Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs and Commissioner Lilliam Barrios Paoli were able to reach this landmark decision. We recognize that in these difficult fiscal times, with the city still facing deficits, that this was not an easy decision.

• Advocacy works! To each of you who has made a phone call, sent a letter to elected officials, attended a press conference or rally, participated in CSCS City Hall Advocacy Days, spoke to the media, spoke to your City Councilmember or in any way advocated against cuts to senior services, CSCS wholeheartedly thanks you.

• Keep moving on! CSCS recognizes there is much work left to do to adequately fund services in order for NYC to have the capacity to serve the growing number of older New Yorkers – a city that is assists its residents in growing old here safely and with dignity.

It is important to take a deep breath, say thank you, and be grateful for this decision and this moment.

CSCS will keep you updated on this.

For further information, please contact Bobbie Sackman, (212) 398-6565, x226 or bsackman@cscs-ny.org

CSCS – THE POWER OF AGING!
WE CHAMPION ELDER RIGHTS