New York Congressman Daniel Goldman, accompanied by his senior representative Ye Lingxia, visited the Ren Rui Center of Hua Ce Association on the morning of the 28th. They witnessed the outdated facilities within the center and the warm welcome from the elderly members. Congressman Goldman promised multiple times to do his utmost to assist the Ren Rui Center in updating its facilities, ensuring that the elderly members can enjoy the most comfortable environment during their activities.
Director Wu Baoling of the Ren Rui Center first introduced the arduous history of the center’s establishment 52 years ago. Today, the center has more than 8,000 members and is the only Chinese elderly center in the city that provides meal delivery services to the homes of the elderly, helping many seniors who have mobility issues and lack help with household chores. Wu Baoling mentioned that despite the project running at a deficit every year, it has persevered under difficult conditions to truly serve the elderly, especially those neglected by society, making them feel warmth still exists in the world, and that society still cares for them.
Moreover, the Ren Rui Center has been at its current location for over twenty years, and various facilities have shown signs of aging, including leaks in the roof, walls, and air conditioning units, with insufficient funds for maintenance projects over the years. Wu Baoling stated that since former councilor Chen Qianwen allocated $80,000 annually, her successor has never inquired, not even allocating a cent, appearing indifferent to the issues faced by the elderly and their safety. During the visit, some elderly members requested for additional funding to hire a part-time professional technician for air conditioning repairs, so that the elderly do not have to endure the hot summer weather.
During the visit to the Ren Rui Center of Hua Ce Association, Goldman heard numerous feedback from the elderly. He mentioned that since being elected as a congressman, he has been committed to combating hate crimes, especially those targeting Asian Americans, with zero tolerance. Being of immigrant descent himself, with his grandparents coming to the United States seeking the American Dream just like Chinese families, he assured that he stands with Chinese families and is determined to help the Ren Rui Center to the best of his abilities.
Goldman was warmly embraced by the elderly at the Ren Rui Center, with cheers promising to vote for him. He expressed gratitude multiple times and assured to fulfill his commitments. Goldman even engaged in a friendly game of table tennis with the members of the Ren Rui Center. Goldman and his wife Colina live in downtown Manhattan, raising five children. In 2019, he served as the lead lawyer for the impeachment inquiry against then-President Trump. Before that, Goldman worked as an assistant prosecutor in the Southern District Court of New York for a decade.