Senior citizen community in Richmond Hill treated to Christmas party

TIMES INT'L

By Natasha Waldron Anthony

Some 400 senior citizen residents of Richmond Hill, New York were guests of Dr Taj Rajkumar, initiator of the annual Elderly Christmas Party. Rajkumar, the first Guyanese to hold the position of District Leader in the New York State Assembly District 31, started the event several years ago in collaboration with several community leaders and organizations, including the Indo-Caribbean Federation and the Inter-community Civic Association. 

He told Guyana Times International that the idea is to ensure elderly residents within the community are also treated to a party at this time of the year. “I think everybody goes to a party. And who is taking care of our senior citizens? So that is why I have decided to do it”, he said. 

Dr Vijai Lilliah, vice president of the Inter-community Civic Association, said the event focuses on the aged population, those who are 55 years and older. The primary purpose is to bring them together and reassure them that they are not alone, especially at this time when “the language of Christmas is sharing, giving and love”, Lilliah told this publication. 

He says the seniors are the community, and despite all the cutbacks that have been implemented on Medicaid and Medicare, they need to be assured that that is not the end of the line. He addresses these issues on a daily basis and seeks ways to assist the aged and disabled.

The senior patrons were treated to a luncheon and cultural show, and, at the Villa Russo, were presented with gifts which were sponsored by the business community in Richmond Hill. 

Artistes who performed at the luncheon include Bassant “Son Son” Sonipersaud, Irving Persaud and Lalitta Ramnauth. 

Rajkumar is optimistic the event will continue to grow, and is already looking forward to hosting the party for the elderly residents in Richmond Hill next year. He said what is inspiring and satisfying is the genuine hugs of appreciation he receives from the patrons, who tell him they truly enjoyed themselves.

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