The People’s Miracle Center celebrated its 52nd anniversary with a grand evening event at the Lucky Fortune Restaurant on the 31st. The event was attended by officials from the Elderly Bureau and familiar figures in the Chinese community to offer their congratulations. With over half a century of history, the People’s Miracle Center has witnessed the ups and downs of Chinatown, advocating for the well-being of elderly Chinese individuals, with the Elderly Bureau Director, Hua Ruolan, personally greeting the seniors at the event.
Director Wu Baoling, in her speech, shared her over 60 years of immigration experience in the U.S. and her 55 years of work at the People’s Miracle Center. She expressed gratitude for the support of various wise community members, philanthropists, and the Elderly Bureau that helped sustain the center over the years. Director Wu has tirelessly worked to advocate for the welfare of elderly Chinese individuals in Chinatown, receiving strong support from the overseas Chinese community. Many philanthropists extend a helping hand whenever the People’s Miracle Center faces challenges.
CEO He Yongkang mentioned that the center currently has over 8000 active members, providing services to up to 600 elderly individuals daily. Their meal delivery service also reaches seniors who live alone and lack proper care, making the People’s Miracle Center the only non-profit organization in New York City capable of providing meal delivery services to the Chinese community.
To express gratitude for the long-term support of various sectors of society towards the People’s Miracle Center, Wu Baoling awarded several dedicated individuals, philanthropists, and volunteer teams at the event. This year, special recognition was given to several elderly individuals aged 90 to 101, many of whom have volunteered at the center for over 30 years, dedicating their time and even money. The Lifetime Achievement Award recipients included Hua Ruolan, Director of the New York City Elderly Bureau, Zhong Weilin and his wife (101 years old), Zhang Dengbilian (98 years old), Li Wuhuilian (98 years old), Lu Yan (98 years old), Weng Ruliang and his wife (96/95 years old), Tian Shan Keshe and his wife (95 years old), Liu Maoshuqing (92 years old), Liu Junxiong (91 years old), Aaron Cohen (89 years old), Wang Chen, Teacher Lu Yu, and Principal Wu Xiaozhen, among others.
The gratitude ceremony kicked off with a performance by the People’s Miracle Chorus, leading the audience in singing “God Bless America”, “Birthday Song”, and “The People’s Miracle Center Is My Home”. Elected officials in attendance included State Senator Kafana, State Assemblyman Li Rongen, and representatives from Councilman Gao Buer’s office. The event was sponsored by the New York Pine Development Company.