AARP New York Statement on City Council Adoption of FY 2026 Budget

AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel released the following statement today in response to the New York City Council’s vote to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the City of New York:

“We are pleased that the final city budget protects core services for older New Yorkers and begins to address the long-standing needs of older adult centers across all five boroughs. Thanks to the tireless advocacy of older adults, service providers, and our AARP members who raised their voices. We also owe a debt of gratitude to Councilmember Crystal Hudson whose work ensured that this budget takes meaningful steps to shore up the City’s aging services infrastructure that so many rely on to age with dignity.

“By eliminating the dangerous fiscal cliff that threatened to shut down older adult centers across New York City, this budget averts a potential catastrophe. These centers are lifelines —providing vital meals, programming, and support that keep older New Yorkers healthy, connected, and safe.

“New funding for emergency repairs at older adult centers, expanded case management, and an increase in support for home-delivered meals will help stem the erosion of essential services — and stand as a testament to the power of New Yorkers coming together to fight for what’s right.

“These investments fund critical lifelines for a population that is shouldering the weight of New York’s affordability crisis. Older adults are the city’s fastest-growing age group, and far too many are struggling. According to a recent report from the Center for an Urban Future, nearly one in five older New Yorkers now lives in poverty, and nearly 60% of adults over 70 have no retirement income at all. An AARP New York poll found that 94% of voters view the cost of living in the city as a serious concern — and just 21% believe they’ll be able to retire here.

“New York City must go further to support its aging population — not only by investing in services, but by tackling the root causes of insecurity and displacement. As we look ahead, AARP New York will continue advocating for a city where older New Yorkers can age safely, affordably, and with dignity in the communities they’ve built and helped to sustain.”

Connect with AARP New York on X: @AARPNY, Facebook: AARP New York and LinkedIn: AARP New York

About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.