[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 73 (Monday, May 7, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E593-E594]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SPANISH SPEAKING ELDERLY COUNCIL--RAICES

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 7, 2018

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise 
today to pay tribute to the Spanish Speaking Elderly Council--RAICES as 
it celebrates its 40th Anniversary on May 17, 2018.
  This invaluable organization was founded in 1978 by retired Hispanic 
senior citizens to meet the needs of New York City's growing Latino 
community in Brooklyn. Instead of enjoying retirement, determined 
retirees and founders went back to work to create an organization that 
would lift communication and service barriers for elderly Latinos.
  Through its activities, workshops, outings and classes, RAICES 
provides an opportunity for seniors to receive resources, information, 
exercise and nutrition, but also an opportunity to give back to the 
community through programs. Members have learned about elder abuse, 
crime prevention, and fire safety.
  In addition to building upon their skills, knowledge and ability, it 
provides members with an array of case assistance, advocacy, benefits 
and entitlement assistance, improving the lives of hundreds of seniors 
living below or at the federal poverty line.
  Today, RAICES operates seven senior centers in the counties of 
Brooklyn and Queens New York. I congratulate Spanish Speaking Elderly 
Council--RAICES, Inc. for forty years of invaluable services. I commend 
Lisette Sosa-Dickson, Executive Director and Board of Directors for 
their leadership and public service. I wish RAICES many more years of 
continued success.

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