Numerous senior citizens, many of them low-income Cubans, once again found themselves barred from the center where they received free meals and services in Hialeah, Florida. This closure comes only weeks after these services were resumed.
The closure order was issued by city officials on October 7, requiring activities to halt within five days. By Monday, October 12, the center, which had been operating on the second floor of La Carreta restaurant since September 16, was closed, as reported by Telemundo 51.
"There was a wonderful participation and a lot of seniors, and now we find it closed. They didn't provide a reason why it was shut down," lamented Adolfo Pérez, a user who arrived unaware of the service's suspension.
For 43 years, the organization provided services to seniors at Goodlet Park. On April 27, Mayor Bryan Calvo informed LHANC that they had 30 days to vacate the municipal facilities, a decision that led to the closure of their operations there in May.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding the Closure
The reopening at La Carreta had been a lifeline for those affected, thanks to an agreement that allowed the program to relocate there. However, Hialeah City Council claims the organization began operating a senior day care center funded by state public funds without the necessary permits and licenses.
Municipal spokesperson Julio Ligorría stated that LHANC was given a month to regularize their situation but failed to meet the requirements. The city also cited issues related to the facility's capacity and parking availability.
The organization disputed this latter point, explaining that they transport seniors in their own vehicles, making the parking requirements applied to other establishments unnecessary.
Political Tensions and Financial Disputes
The decision has also sparked a conflict between municipal and Miami-Dade County authorities. District 13 Commissioner René García, whose office allocates $3,000 monthly for the space's rent, criticized the measure and questioned the need for an additional license to use a room within an already authorized restaurant.
"I think it's obviously beyond the issue of La Carreta," García told Telemundo 51, suggesting that the city administration aims to prevent LHANC from continuing its free services in Hialeah.
The commissioner also questioned the $700,000 cost mentioned by Mayor Calvo for maintaining the old Goodlet Park facilities.
Impact on the Community
This dispute affects an organization founded in 1972, which has provided food, recreational activities, and social assistance to Hispanic seniors, many of whom are Cuban, for over five decades.
The initial eviction ordered at the end of April impacted more than 140 seniors, including participants in a high-risk nutrition program. The latest measure renews uncertainty for those who rely on these services.
Telemundo 51 attempted to get statements from Mayor Bryan Calvo, but city offices were closed due to a holiday.
Alternative Resources for Affected Seniors
Where can affected seniors receive meals? The city assured that its senior meal programs are still operational and suggested the Victor Wilde Park Center as an alternative, located at 1701 W. 53 Terrace in Hialeah.
According to municipal information, this facility can accommodate 180 people and offers services from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
As the disagreement over permits persists, seniors who attended La Carreta face yet another disruption in their routine and access to meals and activities previously available at the center.
FAQs on Hialeah's Senior Services and La Carreta Closure
Why was the senior center at La Carreta closed?
The center was closed due to operating without the necessary permits and licenses as required by the Hialeah City Council, according to city officials.
What alternatives are available for affected seniors?
The city has provided the Victor Wilde Park Center as an alternative, where seniors can continue to receive meals and services.
How is the conflict impacting the community?
The closure affects more than 140 seniors who depended on the services provided by the organization, causing uncertainty and disruption in their daily lives.