27-02-2025
Paramus plans to expand programs for seniors with $100K state grant
The Paramus senior center will receive $100,000 in grant funding to expand its programming and improve accessibility for visitors.
The money comes from the state Department of Human Services' Age-Friendly grant program, which the borough applied for last September.
Borough Administrator Hector Olmo said the grant will help the Joseph Cipolla Senior Activity Center create new fitness programs and other offerings that residents had requested but which haven't materialized due to budget constraints. That includes classes to get seniors moving, such as Tai chi, said Olmo.
The entrance to the building on Farview Avenue also will be upgraded to become ADA compliant. Although the center has a newer entrance near an elevator, some visitors still use the Farview door, which will get a new ramp, Olmo said.
'We're fixing it because the parking is not that good in that front area,' he explained. 'If you park in the handicap area in the front, you actually have to go around the car to get to the building. Now we're going to make it so if you get out of the car, you walk toward the front of the car to the sidewalk and go up onto the new ramp.'
The center offers classes and activities for borough residents, aged 62 and older.
The borough is planning for construction in the summer when the center is less active and the work will have less disruption on seniors coming by for services.
The grant money also may be used to expand existing programs such as yoga, a book club, mahjong, a knitting circle, canasta, cards, bocce, cardio and line dancing.
'The senior center is a great place for Paramus residents to make friends and continue to be part of the Paramus community,' said Mayor Chris DiPiazza.
Stephanie Noda is a local reporter for For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
Email: noda@ X: @snoda11
This article originally appeared on Paramus NJ to upgrade senior center, expand programs with grant
