Weinberg Center for Balanced Living
Weinberg Center for Balanced Living (WCBL) is known on the Lower East Side as a vibrant and active older adult center. WCBL’s offerings reflect the diverse interests of older New Yorkers. Every weekday, from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, WCBL provides group exercise, arts and education classes, advocacy and social events, as well as fresh Kosher meals. Please click on the links above to access our current program schedule and menus.
WCBL Membership
WCBL serves New Yorkers who are 60 years of age, and their spouses or domestic partners. We also welcome underage individuals who have a physical or cognitive disability and live with a person who is at least 60 years of age. WCBL activities and classes are designed to be engaging and enjoyable — while meeting a variety of interests, fitness and health levels. All we ask is that members abide by our Community Center Code of Conduct, which can be found using the links below.
Registration hours for new members are Wednesdays from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Becoming a member is easy! Contact us at (646) 395-4270 or [email protected] to schedule a one-on-one membership intake appointment. Please note that we also conduct annual membership renewals during this time.
Please See Our Code of Conduct:
Meals
WCBL serves Dairy Kosher meals in-person only. Congregate breakfasts are served from 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM or until all meals have been distributed, for a suggested donation of $1. Congregate lunches will be served Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, or until all meals have been distributed, for a suggested donation of $2. Your donations are directly used to support WCBL’s programs for older New Yorkers, but please know that no individual will be turned away for not being able to contribute. Older New Yorkers who do not wish to register as a member of the WCBL may still participate in our meal program but must show proof of age. Learn more about our meal program here.
Social Services
Social Services are available in person, or via phone, email, or video. Please call (646) 395-4270 or email [email protected] with any inquiries or to schedule an appointment with a Social Services staff person.
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Health and Safety
In following recommendations from the NYC Department of Health and NYC Aging, face coverings remain highly encouraged in all WCBL programs and services. Find additional MCC Health and Safety requirements here.
- I have spent over a year participating in dance classes with Margaret Yuen. These classes helped me establish a balance of activities that are keeping me emotionally and physically strong. I am in my 70s and I find I’m thriving in Chinatown, meeting very qualified and friendly people to pursue new passions! Life without this center – especially with the challenges of a pandemic – would have been hard. I’m met every day by people who greet me at the front desk and who I’ve come to know as friends. This level of familiarity exists as I move throughout the building where I feel welcomed and appreciated.Learning dance is a true highlight of my life. It was fabulous to have an opportunity to showcase my skills with my colleagues. The warmth and encouragement and patience of the staff at Manny Cantor Center are beyond what a job description could possibly require. I want to say I’m grateful for being part of this wonderful community.Gloria, WCBL Member
The walking program has been a delight of experience! I enjoy earning the intricacies and beauties of our neighborhood. It is always informative and such a congenial way to become always more familiar with the Lower East Side. Demetra brings a bountiful amount of knowledge to these walk-experiences. I highly recommend this group for all ages!
Sheila, WCBL Member and VolunteerYou are so efficient. Thank you for scheduling my husband's flu shot Hannah. It was so nice to meet you today. I loved both the Handbuilding Ceramics and the Clay Jewelry classes today. They were my first in-person classes since the pandemic. It was wonderful to actually interact with "live" human beings again. I'm feeling hope for a new "normal."
Linda, WCBL MemberThe Breakfast appeared to have been ‘called in’ from my apartment it was delivered to my table so quickly. I don’t know just what is going on there at the Center but it just can’t be better. Thank you ever so much.
Dan SingerThis is the first senior center I’ve ever attended. I love it – there is so much to do, I’m busy all day in classes and talking with friends.
Mary ChinThe Center has given me my life back.
Philip RubinsteinI’ve been coming to the Edgies for 50 years. I have made lifelong friends here.
Mendy Erez
The Weinberg Center for Balanced Living is funded in part by the New York City Department for the Aging.