PSS Expands Its Reach with New Headquarters in Midtown Manhattan

PSS, a nonprofit organization with a 63-year history dedicated to aiding older adults, has taken a significant step forward by acquiring its new headquarters in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The organization, originally founded to serve aging church members, has evolved into a vital resource for nearly 25,000 individuals annually across New York City.

A Significant Move for PSS

The new headquarters, located at 147 East 48th Street, spans 4,000 square feet, accommodating staff and volunteers who work across all five boroughs. This move marks the departure from its previous offices nestled within the Rutgers Presbyterian Church, a space that served it well but was no longer sufficient for its expanding mission. According to Rimas Jasin, the Executive Director of PSS, this relocation represents a transformative opportunity for the agency's future, enabling enhanced service and programming capabilities.

Improved Facilities for Greater Impact

The third-floor office will serve as a central hub, fostering collaboration among the team members engaged in on-the-ground services throughout the city. With its strategic location, the space is also ideal for PSS's Life! University—a program dedicated to older adults that provides essential education on navigating life's transitions. Set to open in April, this headquarters symbolizes a reinvigorated commitment to community service amidst the challenges presented by COVID-19.

During the pandemic, PSS expanded its reach by offering vital online resources and adaptations for their services, such as the Life! University program. As the impacts of the pandemic begin to fade, PSS has strategically positioned itself to respond to the needs of the aging population, particularly those who are homebound, through an expansion of case management services in the Bronx and across Brooklyn.

A Vision for Future Growth

Josie Lawrence, the President of the PSS Board, highlighted that the decision to invest in this permanent location reflects the organization's sound foundation and dedication to its mission. She emphasized that it aligns with both current and prospective growth plans, ultimately providing PSS with the space needed for future innovations and outreach.

PSS operates multiple Older Adult Centers, a commercial kitchen, and two senior residences, showcasing its extensive network dedicated to improving the quality of life for older New Yorkers. With its new headquarters, the organization is well-equipped to bolster its offerings and expand programming even further, notably through initiatives like the Circle of Care for caregivers and various community education efforts designed to serve diverse populations.

Commitment to Community and Longevity

The transition to this new headquarters is not just a practical move; it represents PSS's evolving role as a leader in New York City’s aging services sector. By providing substantial resources to older adults and their families, PSS aims to continue its legacy of support and advocacy. The organization is proud of its growth in recent years, transitioning from a small agency to one that is independent and committed to inclusivity.

PSS relies on a budget supported by various funders, including the NYC Department for the Aging and the NYS Department of Health, to carry out its critical work. The commitment to community-driven services remains at the core of its values, ensuring accessibility and innovation for the clients it serves.

As it prepares to enter this new chapter, PSS stands firm in its mission to empower older adults and enhance their quality of life, all while embracing the future with renewed vigor and purpose. This move not only represents a physical upgrade; it signals a robust future for PSS in New York City, where innovative solutions and services will continue to flourish.