Queens, NY – On Monday, the New York State Assembly Asian Pacific American (APA) Task Force Chair Assemblymember Grace Lee, Assemblymember David Weprin, Assemblymember Ed Braunstein and Senator John Liu announced $441,456 in state funding for India Home, a leading Asian American community organization serving South Asian and Indo-Caribbean seniors in Queens.

This award is a part of a historic $30 million investment in Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) New Yorkers in the FY 2025-26 State Budget, secured for the third consecutive year by the APA Task Force.

“Rising costs and Trump’s cruel cuts to services are putting immense strain on our immigrant and Asian American seniors,” said Assemblymember Grace Lee, Chair of the APA Task Force. “This funding for India Home, secured by the APA Task Force, is a part of our historic $30 million commitment to AAPI New Yorkers for the third year in a row. With it, India Home can help ensure that vulnerable South Asian and Indo-Caribbean older adults in Queens receive the quality, culturally competent care they deserve.”

"It has been my honor to witness the remarkable work of India Home in serving South Asian seniors across our community. Each gathering I have attended has reflected a warm and vibrant space where elders are uplifted through connection, care, and belonging," said Assemblyman David Weprin. "As the Assemblyman who represents one of the largest South Asian populations in the district, I know how deeply meaningful this work is. Their tireless efforts and dedication to provide a true home for South Asian seniors deserve our highest respect and gratitude. The $441,456 in funding they are receiving is well deserved because it strengthens an organization that has already brought joy, dignity, and community to so many."

India Home is a nonprofit organization based in New York City that improves the quality of life for vulnerable South Asian and Indo-Caribbean older adults by delivering culturally competent social, recreational, and support services.

Since 2008, India Home has served more than 2,500 South Asian and Indo-Caribbean seniors across New York City, providing over 117,000 culturally familiar meals and 3,000 educational workshops. The organization has also delivered more than 13,000 meals and groceries to over 500 low-income seniors, ensuring continued access to healthy, culturally appropriate food.

"We are deeply grateful to all the members of the New York State Assembly Asian Pacific American Task Force for this extraordinary investment in our community. This funding will allow India Home to expand our programs that uplift and empower South Asian & Indo-Caribbean older adults, ensuring they can age with dignity, purpose, and joy.” said Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, Executive Director of India Home. ”This commitment to AAPI New Yorkers is a powerful recognition of our community’s contributions and needs, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with our Elected Officials and Leaders to build a more inclusive and equitable New York."

Other elected officials attending the funding presentation included Assemblymembers Edward Braunstein and Nily Rozic, and Senator John Liu.

State Senator John Liu stated, "These funds represent an important part of the AAPI Equity Budget, which was established to make sure community-based organizations serving Asian Americans throughout New York City have the resources they need to sustain vital programs, address systemic inequities, and advocate for our communities. As the federal administration continues to look for ways to threaten the safety and security of immigrant communities, these funds are more important than ever to keep our communities safe and supported."

Assemblymember Edward Braunstein said, “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of attending many events hosted by Eastern Queens’ India Home, and have seen firsthand the diverse array of culturally-competent services the organization offers the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean senior immigrant community. I am thankful to join my APA Task Force colleagues Assembly Member Weprin and Chair Lee in recognizing the important work India Home does in Queens and helping to secure this state funding allocation.”

“India Home has redefined what it means to age with dignity in New York. Their work centers on building community, preserving culture, and making sure that immigrant seniors are never invisible in our state’s policies or priorities. South Asian and Indo-Caribbean New Yorkers matter, and their wellbeing is central to our shared future. I’m thankful to Chair Lee and the APA Task Force for their leadership in making these investments a reality," said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic.