To celebrate the 90th anniversary of Social Security, AARP New York on Thursday hosted a pizza pop-up in celebration in Bedford-Stuyvesant.
Over slices of classic New York pizza, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries joined residents to hear how the nation's Social Security program has shaped their lives and the impact the security net has on New Yorkers.
“Social Security is more than just a number in a budget—it’s a lifeline earned through decades of hard work,” said AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel. “By sharing a slice of pizza and a slice of their story, New Yorkers are reminding us what’s at stake. For 90 years, Social Security has provided dignity, stability, and peace of mind—and AARP will keep fighting to ensure it’s there for generations to come.”
In Brooklyn, more than 358,150 residents receive Social Security, contributing $6.5 billion to the local economy each year. Most beneficiaries are retired workers, but the program also supports individuals with disabilities, children and surviving family members.
Jeffries reaffirmed his support for protecting and strengthening Social Security.
“Social Security is not an entitlement program. It is an earned benefit that hardworking Americans have paid into for their entire working lives," he said. "I will always fight to make sure that no one ever takes it away."
Today, 14% of Americans 65 and older rely on the program for most of their income, while 40% depend on it for more than half.
Tashea Younge, a Brooklyn resident and AARP volunteer, said she is from a proud Guyanese American family, whose grandparents came to the United States nearly 50 years ago.
"They worked hard, paid taxes, and raised a family—so their children could go to college, buy homes and build their own families. Now in their senior years, they rely on Social Security to cover rent, food and medications," Younge said. "No one should have to struggle for basic needs after a lifetime of contributions. We must protect Social Security, for our elders and for generations to come."
