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Senior‑services group urges continued borough support as contracts strain providers
Summary
A CAST representative told the board their case‑management and transportation programs help homebound older adults, noted three‑year contract structures that rarely adjust for inflation, and said funding for seniors is less than 0.5% of New York City's budget, arguing borough and council funds are essential to supplement constrained contracts.
A CAST representative described programs that help older adults age safely at home, including case management for homebound residents 60 and older, a transportation service to medical appointments and shopping, and community events that reduce isolation.
The presenter said many service contracts are set for three‑year terms and sometimes renewed at the same budget level, which does not account for inflation or changing needs. "Funding for seniors currently is less than half of 1% of New York City's total budget," the presenter said, urging continued borough and council support to supply supplemental services, kitchen equipment, field trips and culturally tailored programming that contractual budgets do not allow.
Board members asked about transportation hours and whether rides are individual or group; the presenter said transport is primarily individual, typically during weekday hours, and can be scheduled in multi‑week increments for ongoing medical needs.
No formal board action was taken during the consultation; the CAST representative asked for ongoing partnership and collaboration.
