The Alberta L. Alston House, a 151-unit affordable apartment building in Corona, Queens, with a vibrant and diverse community of older adults, celebrated 40 years this month.
The residence was opened in 1984 by PSS, a multi-service agency with a mission to help older New Yorkers, their families, and their communities thrive. The activities and facilities at Alberta Alston House serve to keep the residents engaged socially, mentally and physically.
“For 40 years, Alberta Alston House has served as a residence for thousands – providing a safe and comfortable place for seniors,” said Board President James Tse, thanking the staff and his fellow board members at a celebration Dec. 5. “One of the things I’m most proud of in the past years of the COVID pandemic is that we did not lose one senior.”
Just like Queens, Alberta Alston is a melting pot. The tenants in the large, bright community room spoke in their native Korean, Spanish, English, Chinese and Russian about what their home means to them.
“Living in Alberta Alston House is about being part of a thriving community. The dedicated staff ensure that residents are well taken care of. The monthly activities provide ample opportunities for residents to engage and bond with each other,” said one resident.
PSS provides on-site social services and Metro Management Development Inc. manages the building. Activities include painting, crocheting, movement and Zumba classes. In warmer weather, residents grow their own vegetables and flowers in raised garden beds on the spacious grounds. An on-site computer lab offers access to internet and classes.
Once people get a spot in the building, they stay. Those 62 and older (55+ if disabled) can join the waiting list, which follows Section 8 income guidelines. The newest tenant has been on the waiting list since 2012. Tenants pay 30% of their gross income as rent.
The building was named for Alberta Lois Alston, a religious and community leader who in 1977 was the first African American female moderator of the Presbytery of New York City.
“Everyone who comes to Alberta Alston says,’ Wow!,’ ” said PSS Executive Director Rimas Jasin. “What makes this place special are the people.”
(Photo by KaTrina Dinham) l-r: PSS Board President Josie Lawrence, PSS Community Social Services Director Matthew Buletti; Alberta Alston Board Members Celia Sanchez, Rev. Jeffrey Courter, Rev. Lindsay Borden, Rev. Eric C. Toodles, Charline Collins, Rev. Jane Donnelly, Board President James Tse; David Baron, President, Metro Management Development; PSS Executive Director Rimas Jasin; Patricia Casenave, Property Manager; Aracelis Estrella Ramos, Social Services Coordinator.
Enjoy this video of the festivities, also by KaTrina Dinham, PSS Content and Communications Manager.