Oct. 19, 2022 By Czarinna Andres and Christian Murray
Sunnyside Community Services, a community-based non-profit serving New Yorkers of all age groups, cut the ribbon on its new Long Island City facility Monday.
The non-profit, which serves 16,000 people from pre-K to seniors each year, has taken a 7,700 square foot space on the second floor of a TF Cornerstone building—located on the Long Island City waterfront at 52-41 Center Blvd.
SCS will continue to be headquartered at its Sunnyside location on 39th Street, with the new space representing an expansion.
“Our new facility is located in a beautiful building in a stunning area of Long Island City,” said Judy Zangwill, executive director of SCS. “But more importantly, the additional space will allow us to improve our programs and make a difference in the lives of even more Queens residents who need our services.”
The Long Island City site will be used by SCS to host community events, support groups, meetings, and concerts. The non-profit, however, will primarily use it for its home health aide training program—as well as to provide caregiver services.
The non-profit aims to use the new facility to increase the number of home health aides it trains, a program that prepares individuals to assist older adults in their homes and communities. Those who complete the free four-week program, are then offered employment opportunities through the non-profit’s two affiliated home care agencies.
The new facility includes a 1,350-square foot area for its home health aide training program. That space will also be used for its caregiver program. The caregiver program aims to help people who are taking care of a parent, spouse or loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The program provides caregivers with counseling, workshops, respite services and peer support groups.
The new facility also includes about 2,000 square feet of office space; a multipurpose room; a private room for smaller meetings; a break room; and a reception area.
“The comprehensive social services offered by SCS are invaluable,” said Jon McMillan, senior vice president of TF Cornerstone. “SCS’s new center will provide aid and assistance to the community at large, which in turn will result in the long-term growth and well-being of Long Island City.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards congratulated SCS for opening the new facility and praised the non-profit for its work.
“The grand opening of SCS’s new space is great news for all who rely on SCS to help them achieve their aspirations and live their lives to the fullest,” Richards said. “This new space will strongly support SCS’s efforts to enrich lives and strengthen communities throughout ‘The World’s Borough.’
New Yorkers who are interested in becoming a home health aide or need caregiver services should reach out to SCS at info@scsny.org or 877-577-9337
One Comment
I thought they were going broke. Always asking for donations.