Friendship Center saved – for now

Senior citizens and their caregivers can breathe a sigh of relief – at least until July perhaps.
The Friendship Center, a Jamaica-based facility for senior citizens, was saved from being shut down after advocates urged the Department for the Aging (DFTA) and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to continue providing funding during a rally in late December. The center exclusively serves a population of mentally and physically frail adults over 60 who have become socially isolated and partially dependent upon others for their daily living.
Both departments will restore financial support for the Friendship Center after news came last month that funding would be cut completely, ultimately leading to the center’s closure.
Starting July 1 of this year until June 30, 2012 (Fiscal Year 2012), the center’s funding will be cut by 50 percent. At that time, The Friendship Center will have to come up with approximately $220,000 to make up the difference.
“I was exhilarated when I learned that the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will continue the funding,” said Carol J. Hunt, Executive Director for the Jamaica Service Program for Older Adults, the organization that runs the center. “The 50 percent cut is a disappointment, but at least it gives us time.”
Hunt hopes that funds will come from local legislators who have already expressed interest.
“We will continue to fight to preserve the Friendship Center,” said Councilmember Ruben Wills. “For decades the Friendship Center has flourished as a blended combination of a health facility and a social activity center for our older population. It is a vital part of the southeast Queens landscape and we will do all we can to ensure its continuance.”
Members – some with tears in their eyes – were overwhelmed with joy upon learning that the center will keep receiving the subsidy and have expressed optimism that it will remain open.
“I would miss it because it gives me something to do. I have good friends and there is a great staff here,” said Neil Stewart, 67.