VNS Health recently celebrated its 25th anniversary of the Chinatown Community Center and the 18th anniversary of the Chinatown Senior Services at a vibrant event held at the Chinese Community Center in New York on October 17. Hundreds of medical professionals, political representatives, community members, volunteers, and seniors gathered to commemorate this milestone. As part of the celebration, VNS Health presented Community Leadership Awards to the Chinese Community Center, the Chinatown Community Center, and to the oldest members and volunteers of the Chinatown Senior Services. They also honored 19 organizations that have supported community education activities in palliative care with special appreciation awards.
During the event, John Burke, the Executive Vice President of VNS Health, emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services to those in need since its establishment in 1893. He noted that VNS Health serves over 51,000 patients, health plan members, and clients daily, including thousands of elderly residents from the Chinatown community. Burke expressed the value of the long-standing relationship with the Chinese community, stating that while it dates back decades, it intensified with the establishment of the Chinatown Community Center in 1999.
Over the past 25 years, the Chinatown Community Center has served more than 300,000 clients and hosted over 10,000 events to support the Asian community in New York City. This strong bond led to state funding in 2006 that allowed VNS Health to establish the Chinatown Senior Services, which has since cared for over 1,400 residents. Burke took the opportunity to express his gratitude towards city and state legislators and funders whose support has enabled VNS Health to provide essential services to elderly residents in Chinatown.
Among the honored guests was 99-year-old Mr. Ng Kin Lun, who, with the assistance of nurse Ms. Kwong Yun Ling, accepted recognition as the oldest member in attendance. VNS Health noted that Mr. Ng’s vitality at nearly a century old can be attributed to regular medical care, attentive nursing, maintaining an optimistic outlook on life, and healthy eating habits. The festivities included performances such as a traditional Chinese dance by nursing manager Ms. Chen Li, an introduction to the latest health insurance plan for 2025, and a lucky draw.
For any inquiries regarding VNS Health services, please contact the Chinatown Community Center at (212) 619-3072 and the Chinatown Senior Services at (212) 619-3073.
