Local officials and representatives from several community organizations hosted an event on July 8 at Elmhurst Hospital to honor first responders and pay tribute to the memory of loved ones lost to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event, called “Celebration of Life,” was hosted by Assemblymember Catalina Cruz (D-39), Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., World Central Kitchen and COVID Survivors For Change.
Cruz, who issued a statement following the event, said the occasion was well attended and heartfelt.
“Monday’s ‘Celebration of Life’ at Elmhurst Hospital was truly inspirational. It was wonderful to see our community unite to remember our loved ones and honor the brave first responders who put everything on the line during such a difficult time,” Cruz said.
Richards said that the event marked a time to reflect on how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the lives of so many. “I’m glad to have joined Assemblymember Catalina Cruz, Elmhurst Hospital, and COVID Survivors for Change, to remember the individuals we lost to COVID and celebrate their memories. I’m also glad we’ve made it so far since the height of the pandemic and that it only brought us all here in Queens closer together,” he said.
During the remembrance event, the elected officials acknowledged NYC Health + Hospital/Elmhurst’s life-saving work during the pandemic. Dr. Helen Arteaga Landaverde, CEO of Elmhurst Hospital, said the hospital appreciated the support during the healthcare crisis.
Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-34), who represents East Elmhurst and Astoria, used the occasion to advocate for COVID-19 baby bonds legislation, which would provide public funds for children who lost a parent due to COVID.
According to Chirs Kocher, executive director of COVID Survivors for Change, more than 18,000 children in New York lost a parent or primary caregiver to COVID-19. Kocher emphasized the importance of supporting families who have lost loved ones during the pandemic and pushing for financial and mental health resources to help them heal.
