Firefighters and Seniors Play Billiards

As featured on News 12 Jersey Proud

PERTH AMBOY, NJ — The Perth Amboy Office on Aging recently hosted a friendly billiards tournament between members of the PA Breakers, a senior group that meets regularly at the Alexander F. Jankowski Community Center, and the Perth Amboy Fire Department. The seniors won 11 out of 12 games, but the focus of the event was on connection, inclusion, and collaboration between residents and city departments.

The tournament, which was open to all senior residents regardless of program enrollment, is one example of how the Office on Aging continues to expand access to services and promote engagement across age groups. With the participation of the Fire Department, the event helped foster positive intergenerational interaction and showcased the city’s ongoing commitment to respectful and responsive service.

"The event allowed our seniors to engage with the Fire Department in a meaningful way,” said Isamar Payano, Director of the Office on Aging. “We are proud to continue offering opportunities that reflect the value our older adults bring to the community. Whether someone is part of our programs or not, we want all seniors in Perth Amboy to feel included and supported."

Dianne Roman, Director of Human Services, Housing and Social Services, added, “Through collaboration across city departments and with our community partners, we’re creating meaningful connections with the residents we serve. That’s how we build trust and strengthen community in Perth Amboy.”

Mayor Helmin J. Caba praised the effort, stating, “This event reflects the spirit of Perth Amboy. Our departments work hand in hand to create programs that honor our seniors and allow our first responders to connect with residents beyond their day-to-day responsibilities.”

Fire Chief Edward Mullen also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate. “The firefighters had a great time. Our team walked away with respect for the seniors and appreciation for what the Office on Aging continues to do. A big thank you to Isamar and the team for making this happen. We're looking forward to more opportunities like this, especially working together on fire safety education for our seniors.”

The event received coverage from News 12 as part of its Jersey Proud segment and served as a model for how municipal departments can work together to foster community connections.

About the Office on Aging

The Office on Aging services the needs of city residents 60 years of age and older. Its mission is to improve quality of life through social, recreational, and wellness programs. The office also provides assistance to families and caregivers through services that include:

Transportation
Social service assistance and case management
Monthly programs and community events
Daily lunch served by the Middlesex County Nutrition Program

For more information about services and upcoming programs, contact:
Isamar Payano, Director, Office on Aging
Phone: 732-826-1690 ext. 4326
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

To view the full News 12 segment, visit:
https://newjersey.news12.com/jersey-proud-perth-amboy-firefighters-challenge-seniors-to-billiards-tournament