AARP New York Celebrates Social Security’s 90th Anniversary at Pizza Pop-Up in Albany with Rep. Tonko

“Slices of the Story” Event at Golden Grain Puts a Local Face on the Fight to Protect Social Security

(Albany, NY) — Today, AARP New York hosted its latest Pizza Pop-Up in celebration of Social Security’s 90th anniversary— this time bringing the campaign to Golden Grain in Albany, where Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-21) joined residents to hear how the program has shaped their lives. Over slices of classic New York pizza, older adults and volunteers shared their stories as part of AARP’s statewide campaign, “Slices of the Story: Served Up NY Style.”

The event is one of more than 150 community gatherings across the state in the lead-up to Social Security’s 90th anniversary on August 14. Through these pop-ups, AARP is creating spaces where older adults and elected leaders can share their “slice of the story” and underscore the program’s impact in everyday terms.

“Social Security is more than just a number in a budget—it’s a lifeline earned through decades of hard work,” said Beth Finkel, AARP New York State Director. “By sharing a slice of pizza and a slice of their story, New Yorkers are reminding us what’s at stake. For 90 years, Social Security has provided dignity, stability, and peace of mind—and AARP will keep fighting to ensure it’s there for generations to come.”

Congressman Tonko reaffirmed his support for protecting and strengthening Social Security and praised AARP New York’s efforts to bring real community voices to the conversation.

“I’m so proud to be joining AARP New York to help celebrate the 90th anniversary of Social Security, an earned benefit that has been a lifeline for millions of New Yorkers for nearly a century. Social Security represents a solemn promise to our seniors — that after a lifetime of hard work and dedication, our nation will be there to help them retire in comfort and dignity. I look forward to hearing stories from AARP members about the positive impact this program has had on their lives, and I’ll always continue the fight to preserve its benefits for future generations,” Congressman Tonko said.

In Albany County, more than 64,670 residents receive Social Security, contributing $1.5 billion to the local economy each year. Most beneficiaries are retired workers, but the program also supports individuals with disabilities, children, and surviving family members.

Social Security is one of the most successful and popular initiatives in American history, helping generations of Americans avoid poverty and live with dignity in retirement. In its 90 years, Social Security has never missed a payment. Today, 14 percent of Americans 65 and older rely on the program for most of their income, while 40 percent depend on it for more than half. It helps families keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table, and provides peace of mind that their loved ones are protected in the event of disability or death.

“This August we are celebrating 90 years since Social Security was signed into law—a promise to Americans: work hard, pay into the system, and your Social Security will be there when you need it,” said Alvaro Carrascal, an older adult in Albany, an AARP member, and Social Security recipient. “For me, that promise has made a difference. My Social Security benefits –earned over a lifetime of work-- have contributed to my quality of life. AARP is right to celebrate this anniversary, but it also a reminder that we must keep fighting to protect and strengthen Social Security as a lifeline for millions of older Americans today, and for the generation of our children and grandchildren.”

The Pizza Pop-Up series continues across the state as part of AARP New York’s 90-day campaign to mark the 90th anniversary of Social Security—celebrating its legacy, highlighting its local impact, and calling on leaders to ensure it remains strong for generations to come.

With every paycheck, younger Americans are paying into a system that will help them build a more secure future. AARP’s campaign ensures that their voices—and the voices of older adults—are heard loud and clear.

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.
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