Two Metropolitan Jewish Health System agencies – Metropolitan Jewish Geriatric Center (MJGC) and Metropolitan Jewish Adult Day Health Center (Adult Day) – both of which have significant populations of Chinese patients and clients receiving services, hosted Chinese New Year celebrations.
The first revelry in MJGC’s solarium, attended by both Chinese patients from the facility and clients from Adult Day, was well received by attendees. Onlookers at the Borough Park-based skilled nursing facility, 4915 10th Avenue, enjoyed a rousing performance by the group Ju Wei Ye and Friends. The six-person act sang a number of traditional songs from China. The group also executed a few dances including the “Umbrella” and the “Waltz” to name a few, while swathed in a breadth of colors including red, gold, blue and pink.
“Hosting special activities like this is just one of the ways MJGC maintains a culturally diverse environment where our patients and their families can feel comfortable,” said Marcy Brennan, director of therapeutic recreation.
A few days later, Chinese, Russian and American seniors came together at Adult Day, 6206 16th Avenue, to perform and enjoy a medley of traditional songs as well as dances from China. Clients showcased their Tai Chi skills during a unique performance and enjoyed an exhibition by performing arts group “Grace.” The group staged the Chinese “Lion,” “Chopstick” and “Ribbon” dances. Adult Day concluded the event with a special holiday meal and New Year’s gift giving.
“Throughout the year, we put on a range of celebrations, including our yearly moon festival and Caribbean carnival. We also host lots of other activities representing the diverse backgrounds of Adult Day’s client base, including a Hanukkah dreidel competition, which is quite popular,” remarked director, Barbara Krinsky.
