New York City is facing a pressing challenge in accommodating a large influx of undocumented immigrants. In response, the city is taking the drastic measure of relocating elderly residents from assisted living homes, turning these facilities into shelters for refugees.
U.S. military veterans are experiencing homelessness, while their residences are being allocated to individuals who entered the country without legal authorization.
For a period of five years, Frank Tammaro, a 95-year-old veteran of the United States military, lived at the Island Shores assisted living facility on Staten Island. In his early years, Frank served in the US Army, contributing significantly to the defense of South Korea against communist invaders during the Korean War.
During his later years, he found contentment in having a residence and the companionship of approximately 50 fellow residents, including seven additional veterans. However, everything took a turn last September when the nonprofit organization overseeing the facility, Homes for the Homeless, informed him and the other residents that they needed to vacate by March. The nonprofit organization had entered into an agreement with New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) to lease the facility to the city. Consequently, it is now occupied by migrants.
In September, Frank’s congresswoman, Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), advocated for his situation and joined him in a press conference.
Upon learning last year that Homes for the Homeless intended to convert Island Shores into a center for migrants, she attempted to prevent it and sought an alternative owner willing to maintain the facility. However, the management of Island Shores declined to engage in any discussions.
Tammaro currently resides with his daughter, Barbara Annunziata, who has been attempting to secure a healthcare aide for him. Unfortunately, they are encountering difficulties in obtaining approval from their health insurer. She harbors resentment over the way her father, who dedicated his service to the country, is being handled.
