“Slices of the Story” Event Puts a Local Face on the Fight to Protect Social Security
(Bronx, 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 A Slice of Love in Brooklyn, where Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8) 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.”
Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries 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 am proud to renew my commitment to Social Security on the 90th anniversary of the passage of the Social Security Act, and I’m grateful for AARP New York’s partnership throughout the state as it continues to advocate on behalf of the needs of older Americans, who are an incredible part of the fabric of our communities,” said Leader Jeffries. “Social Security is not an entitlement program. It is an earned benefit that hardworking Americans have paid into for their entire working lives. I will always fight to make sure that no one ever takes it away,” said Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8).
In Kings County, more than 358,150 residents receive Social Security, contributing $6.5 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.
“I come from a family of proud Guyanese Americans. My grandparents came to this country nearly 50 years ago seeking a better life. They worked hard, paid taxes, and raised a family — so their children could go to college, buy homes, and build their own families. Now in their senior years, they rely on Social Security to cover rent, food, and medications. No one should have to struggle for basic needs after a lifetime of contributions. We must protect Social Security, for our elders and for generations to come,” said Tashea Younge, Brooklyn resident and AARP volunteer.
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 http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, http://www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.
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