[Flint, Michigan] – On Jan. 2, Beverly Lewis, director of Hasselbring Senior Center, notified the Courier that a civil complaint would be filed in the Seventh Circuit Court of Genesee County.
In her press release, Lewis stated: “This decision follows relentless bullying, harassment and obstruction by the City of Flint’s administration, which has forced us to stand up for justice, truth and the well-being of the seniors we serve.”
Lewis pointed out Hasselbring has long been a beacon of hope and a place of refuge for countless seniors in Flint.
The press release continued: “Our mission has always been to uplift, empower, and support those who need us most. Yet, despite our unwavering dedication, we have faced lies, misrepresentation and reckless disregard for the truth from the very administration that should champion and protect community-based organizations like ours.
According to Lewis: “This is not just a fight for Hasselbring—it is a fight for every senior citizen in Flint who deserves respect dignity, and access to a safe and supportive community space. It is a fight against unjust tactics that seek to silence, intimidate and diminish the positive work being done in our city’s underserved areas.”
The press release, which was in letter form from Lewis further stated the civil complaint will seek damages for:
• Lies and misrepresentation,
• Reckless endangerment of the truth:
• Continuous interference:
“While we are determined to see justice prevail, this battle has not been easy,” said Lewis, “We humbly ask the public, our supporters, and everyone who values fairness and truth to stand with us in prayer and strength during this challenging time.”
The City has announced it will evict Hasselbring, which has been operated by a 501(c)(3) titled Hasselbring Senior Center, from the building on Jan. 5, 2025, because the Flint City Council has been unable to vote to extend the Center’s lease agreement. At a press conference held at Cathedral of Faith Church, City of Flint Chief of Staff Ed Taylor said that Hasselbring Senior Center hasn’t had an updated lease agreement since 2016.
Alleged alcohol use on the property during third-party rentals was also discussed at that press conference, in addition to allegations that money for rentals that were to take place in 2025 continued to be collected even after the City said the current service provider was being evicted.
Taylor referred to these expected renters as “victims of fraud..”
“We’re not eviting any seniors,” said Taylor, “All we’re doing is changing the service provider.”
