Frank Tammaro, a 95-year-old veteran of the Korean War and lifelong resident of New York, is speaking out against the city’s decision to evict him and other senior citizens from their assisted living home to accommodate migrants. In September, alongside Representative Nicole Malliotakis, Tammaro revealed that over 50 seniors, including himself and seven other war veterans, were forced to leave Island Shores Senior Residence in Staten Island.

Tammaro’s distress over the situation is palpable. He expressed his dismay and sense of betrayal, stating, “I felt horrible. It’s no joke getting thrown out of a house.” His situation underscores a wider problem where local governments seem to prioritize the needs of migrants over those of long-standing residents and veterans.

The decision to transform Island Shores into a migrant camp was a result of a deal between the NGO Homes for the Homeless, which owns the facility, and New York City officials. This revelation came as a shock to Tammaro and other residents, who were suddenly confronted with the uncertainty of finding a new place to live.

After being evicted, Tammaro moved to a different assisted living home but eventually had to leave following an accident. He now resides with his daughter, Barbara Annunziata, in Midland Beach, Staten Island. This transition has been difficult for Tammaro, who had planned to spend his remaining years at Island Shores.

Tammaro’s story highlights a critical issue facing many American cities where resources and attention are increasingly directed towards migrant populations, often at the expense of local residents. His daughter, Barbara, shares her father’s frustration. She has struggled to obtain a healthcare aide for him due to insurance rejections, while observing that migrants seem to receive extensive support and services. This disparity in treatment has led to feelings of anger and injustice in the Tammaro family.

The situation raises important questions about the allocation of resources and the priorities of local governments. It points to the need for a more balanced approach that considers the welfare of all community members, including veterans and senior citizens who have contributed to society throughout their lives.

Tammaro’s case is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by elderly and veteran populations in cities across America. It underscores the importance of ensuring that policies and resource distributions are fair and inclusive, respecting the dignity and rights of all residents.