Jackson Heights, New York – Today, Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas presented a $40,000 check of in-district initiative funding to the staff and members of the Selfhelp Community Center in Jackson Heights. The Northridge/Brulene/ Southridge Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) Program serves older adults in the community. The funding is allocated to support subsidized transit services for older adults who need to get to medical and other appointments and are unable to afford the cost. The request was made of the Assembly Member’s office after members of the Advisory Board met with González-Rojas to communicate their concerns and needs.

The Fiscal Year 2024-2025 New York State Budget allocated $1 million for Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORC), which the Assembly Member advocated. The Legislature also provided $100,000 in general operating money to SelfHelp Community Services. Older adults encounter services from across the State’s social services programs. During the 2024 legislative session Assembly Member González-Rojas successfully advocated for the elimination of insulin co-payments for New Yorkers enrolled in state-regulated insurance plans and to protect aging communities from medical debt.

“I am so delighted to bring resources to NORC programs in my district. Aging in place with grace and dignity is critical to the longevity and vibrancy of our community. As a member of both the Committee on Health and on Social Services, I recognize the incredible impact investing in our aging population has on ensuring that our older adults are able to safely and easily gain access to critical resources to support their independence as thriving residents of New York. I’m grateful that this year we were able to secure these funds for important services like these, to strengthen our older adult population. When we invest in services like these, we are investing in all of our futures,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas.

“The Selfhelp Northridge/Southridge/Brulene NORC thanks Assemblymember González-Rojas for support. One of most frequently used services our NORC provides is subsidized car service to medical appointments. We arrange over 1,000 trips each year to ensure that NORC members get the care they need to stay healthy and independent. From cancer treatments to cardiology follow-ups, we ensure that no older adult is forced to skip an essential medical appointment because of the rising costs related to transportation," said Karen Taylor Program Director of Selfhelp Northridge/Brulene/Southridge NORC Program