Read this article as it originally appeared on nj.com | localtalknews.com
Fourth of July came a few days early for clients of Casa Israel Adult Medical Day Care Center in Newark, who celebrated June birthdays as well as the birthday of the nation.
More than 100 clients participated in the day’s events, which featured an old-fashioned barbeque, music, dancing, and of course, a birthday cake.
“Today’s event was wonderful, it was really very surprising,” said Gloria Ruiz, who has been a Casa Israel Client since January. “We have a staff that is tremendous and for us senior citizens, it makes us feel very useful. It’s very rewarding to us. And this is really a nice surprise for us.”
Casa Israel Adult Medical Day Care Center Director Kate Flores with client Gloria Ruiz during a July 4 celebration
At Casa Israel, Ruiz loves to do intricate crafts and beadwork. She decorates clothing and hats and can always be seen working on a craft project from home or at the center. “I was in another program before and if I had known about Casa Israel, I would have joined a lot sooner,” Ruiz said. “I noticed a difference from day one.“
Kate Flores, the director of Casa Israel, said the center is always thinking of fun events and outings for the clients. The combined Fourth of July-June birthday celebration is just one example, she said.
“I’ve seen the people who come, some of them don’t have families at home and this is like a family for them,” Flores said.
Alma Gillian, became a client three years ago after losing her son. Her mother and son died just a few months apart in the same year and Casa Israel has become a second home for her. “But God took care of me, I’m still here cracking jokes.”
She has been telling her friends about the center and encouraging them to visit. She said Casa Israel has allowed her to meet all different kinds of people, of all backgrounds, who speak different languages.
“We dance, we do puzzles, we play Bingo, we color, we ask and they give us what we ask for. It is a gorgeous place. It’s a beautiful place,” Gillian said. “We are one big family of all different nationalities.”
Adrianne Davis, the executive director of The North Ward Center, said even though clients must have a medical condition to be admitted to Casa Israel, it doesn’t mean they can’t have fun.
“It’s wonderful to see so many of our clients enjoying themselves,” Davis said. “For many of our clients, this is one of the few opportunities they have to participate in a communal celebration.”
Casa Israel is a licensed day care facility for adults that provides high quality care for up to 120 patients per day. It offers clients exercise, Spanish classes, shopping, bingo, dominoes, arts and crafts, holiday celebrations and trips to local shopping centers. Casa Israel provides transportation to and from home and doctors visits.
“Casa Israel is a remarkable place,” said Stephen N. Adubato, the founder of The North Ward Center. “I encourage residents in the community to visit us to experience all that we have to offer.”
