NYC Aging, KPMG LLP unite for community service day to foster healthy living

The NYC Department for the Aging (NYC Aging) teamed up with KPMG LLP on August 6 to host a vibrant Community Service Day at Brooklyn Borough Hall.

This collaboration emphasized the importance of healthy diets and civic engagement, providing valuable resources to empower New York’s senior population.

The event kicked off with KPMG volunteers partnering with seniors from the Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens New Age Older Adult Center. Attendees were introduced to NYC Aging’s Friendly Visiting Program, which encourages older adults to share their skills and experiences through volunteering, thereby fostering community connections.

Each participant received a Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupon booklet worth $25, which can be redeemed at participating farmers markets across the city. In an extra gesture of support, KPMG supplemented this with an additional $25 for purchasing fresh produce.

Following the presentations, older adults and their KPMG partners visited the Brooklyn Borough Hall Greenmarket, utilizing their coupons to shop for healthy fruits and vegetables.

This event is part of KPMG’s annual Community Impact Day, where employees nationwide engage in volunteer activities that address urgent community needs.

NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez expressed her gratitude, stating, “Today, we brought residents together to highlight the supports available to help older adults age in the communities they have lived in their entire lives. The event showcased the power of a balanced diet and remaining active, all while coming together for a good cause.”

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso praised the initiative, remarking, “Events like this embody the spirit of celebrating Brooklyn through service, and I am proud that Brooklyn Borough Hall was used for today’s program anchored in healthy living.”

Msgr. Alfred LoPinto, President and CEO of Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens, emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stating, “The Farmers Market Nutrition Program event highlights New York City’s dedication to its older adults, and the participation of volunteers and generous donors exemplifies the significance of collective commitment and community involvement.”

Lorna Stark, KPMG US Line of Business Leader for Government & Healthcare, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with the New York City Department of Aging in support of providing educational resources and access to locally grown fruits and vegetables to the community through the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program.”

The NYC Department for the Aging remains committed to combating ageism and ensuring that the nearly 1.8 million older New Yorkers have continued access to essential programs and resources, enabling them to live independently and actively within their communities.