MJHS Isabella Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Opens Air-Conditioned ‘Heat Relief Station’ for Older Adults Aged 65+

MJHS Isabella Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care (MJHS Isabella Center) in Washington Heights today unveiled a Heat Relief Station exclusively for older adults in the Washington Heights community. The MJHS Isabella Center Heat Relief Station, centrally located on the North Drive of the MJHS Isabella Center campus, will provide a welcome break from the heat for close to 70 members of the community.

“This is one of the hottest summers on record and far too many older adults in Washington Heights are at serious risk during heat waves,” said Loyola Princivil-Barnett, COO of MJHS Centers for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care and Administrator of MJHS Isabella Center. “Because so many of our neighbors do not have air conditioning at home, MJHS Isabella Center has opened a community-based Heat Relief Station so neighbors who are 65 years old, and their caregivers, can cool down and hydrate for short periods of time. Consistent with our mission of caring for older at-risk New Yorkers, the MJHS Isabella Center Heat Relief Station addresses a dire need in our community,” Princivil-Barnett added.

The Heat Relief Station can accommodate 70 people at a time on a first-come, first-served basis. The schedule of operation will be based on forecast high heat days of 90 degrees or more through August 2024. The hours of operation will be 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

“In the sweltering summer months, the MJHS Isabella Center’s Heat Relief Station emerges as a vital lifeline, shielding our seniors from extreme heat with compassion and accessibility,” said State Senator Robert Jackson. He added, “This initiative not only saves lives but also underscores a commitment to the well-being of our most vulnerable, showcasing the strength of community and care in Washington Heights.”

“As summers get increasingly hotter, it’s imperative that vulnerable New Yorkers have access to reliable places to cool off and avoid heat-related illness,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I’m incredibly grateful to MJHS Isabella Center for opening this Heat Relief Station to Washington Heights’ older adult community.”