Objective

To determine the extent of implementation of the seven recommendations included in our initial audit report, Congregate Meal Services for the Elderly (Report 2016-N-5).

About the Program

Our initial audit report, which was issued on January 11, 2018, found that the New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA) needed to improve its oversight of senior centers. For example, officials could not demonstrate that they contracted with optimally located senior centers to maximize the number of eligible senior citizens who had access to congregate meals. In addition, we found that prior to approving contracts, DFTA did not determine whether either the proposed costs submitted by sponsors or the proposed number of meals were reasonable for the district served.

Key Finding

DFTA officials have made some progress in addressing the issues identified in our initial report. Of the report’s seven recommendations, one was implemented, three were partially implemented, and three were not implemented.

Key Recommendation

Officials are given 30 days after the issuance of the follow-up review to provide information on any actions that are planned to address the unresolved issues discussed in this review.