HANAC, Serving Vulnerable Communities Across NYC, Marches in 2024 Greek Independence Day Parade

HANAC, the NYC non-profit organization that has been providing affordable housing, social programming, and independent living for older adults for 52 years, marched in the 85th Greek Independence Day Parade on Sunday, April 14, 2024. “It is such an honor and joy to walk in the parade and celebrate the wonderful history and contributions of Greek immigrants in America,” said Stacy Bliagos, Executive Director of HANAC. “HANAC was founded 52 years ago to support Greek immigrants in New York City, and to this day we are dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities across the city.”

From left, Enrique Jerves, Artemis Tsagaris, Demetra Tsagaris, Andrea Jerves, Lola Maroulis, Stacy Bliagos, Thomas Cheung

HANAC occupies a unique place in the story of the Greek community in New York, as the organization was founded in 1972 by George T. Douris and his wife Evangeline in response to the needs of local Greek immigrants, helping them adjust to their new lives in the United States, particularly in Queens. In its early days, the organization secured job opportunities, created senior centers, provided English classes, and even helped members of the local community to register to vote. To this day, HANAC provides housing, community spaces, and resources like English classes, legal services, youth programming, and other support to vulnerable New Yorkers. It has since built a reputation among local communities and New York’s immigrant population as a trustworthy resource and support system for any who need their help. From leading efforts to build sustainable housing, to their management of over 400 affordable housing units serving almost 1,000 people, and helping 30,000 people annually with their Social Service Programs, HANAC has made a name for itself as a passion-driven non-profit with the community roots and historical know-how to create foundational and ongoing positive change.

To learn more about HANAC and how to contribute or volunteer, their website is hanac.org.