In a recent interview, John Burke, the Executive Vice President of VNS Health, spoke about the 25th anniversary celebration of the Chinatown Community Center held at the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association in Manhattan’s Chinatown. This event not only marked a significant milestone for the community center but also celebrated the 18th anniversary of the Chinatown Senior Community Services. The celebration drew hundreds of attendees, including healthcare representatives, local officials, community members, volunteers, and seniors.
During the festivities, VNS Health presented Community Leadership Awards to the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, the Chinatown Community Center, and the oldest members and volunteers of the Chinatown Senior Community Services, recognizing their outstanding contributions. Additionally, awards of appreciation were given to 19 organizations that support community education for palliative care.
Burke emphasized that since its founding in 1893, VNS Health has remained dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare for those in need within the New York community. Currently, they serve over 51,000 patients, health plan members, and clients each day, which includes thousands of seniors living in Manhattan’s Chinatown.
He noted that over the past 25 years, the Chinatown Community Center has served more than 300,000 clients and hosted over 10,000 events to support the Asian community in New York City. In 2006, funding from New York State enabled VNS Health to establish the Chinatown Senior Community Services, which has since cared for over 1,400 Chinatown residents.
On the occasion of the 18th anniversary of the Chinatown Senior Community Services, Burke expressed special gratitude to the New York City and State legislators and funders whose support has allowed the VNS Health team to provide critical services to the elderly in Chinatown. The event also featured notable attendees, including Eva Wong, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health, State Senator Brian Kavanagh, and City Council Member Christopher Marte.
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