Tensions are rising in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park as the United Senior Center of Sunset Park faces potential closure due to a 70% rent increase. The center, which has served local seniors for over 50 years, is confronting an uncertain future as its lease nears expiration in Junem as reported by Gothamist.
Funded by the New York City Department for the Aging and operated independently, the center hosts more than 40,000 visits annually, offering services such as multilingual social workers, daily meals, and social activities. Yesteday, over 250 seniors gathered at an indoor rally to protest the possible shutdown, emphasizing the center’s role as an essential part of their daily lives.
City Councilmember Alexa Avilés, along with Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Councilmember Justin Brannan, urged landlord Amy Grabino to reconsider the rent increase. Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce President Randy Peers stated that efforts to secure a two-year lease extension were rejected, according to PIX11.
Executive Director Grisel Amador acknowledged the proposed rent is below market rate but said the increase presents a major financial challenge. Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez of the Department for the Aging confirmed the agency is working with the center to explore options, including relocation, to avoid disruption of services.
Despite the challenges, the center marked its 51st anniversary on the night of the rally with music and celebration. Seniors like 91-year-old Josephine Rodriguez shared how important the center is for maintaining community and social interaction. "It's very special because it's a place where all the people can get together and even if they don't have a party or something like that, we can chat and meet people. There’s not too many places that, especially these days, that you can go with seniors — this is a great one," she said in a statement obtained by Gothamist.
Local leaders and residents are continuing to seek funding and city support to keep the center open.
