Greater Chinatown Community Association (GCCA) was established on July 1, 1972 as a response to the explosion in Chinese immigration that resulted from the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act.  Father Louis Tchang, a priest at the Church of the Transfiguration, New York City, directly witnessed this populations’ influx and recognized their dire need for services and community.  Along with the consent of local pastors, sisters and community members, a proposal was drawn for a Chinese Apostolate Office and Chinese community center. 

The service center would become an outreach of the Archdiocese of New York and a service to the Greater New York Community.  GCCA was established in the heart of Chinatown allowing the staff of the Chinese Apostolate to engage directly with the community.

Upon its opening, GCCA provided assistance to the Chinese elderly in various ways such as social security, Medicare, and housing information and referral as well as personal assistance.  The office also acted as a drop-in center where the elderly could congregate for socializing and planning of group activities.

Today, GCCA has expanded its services to include services benefiting a broader Chinese population.  GCCA offers unique, individualized personal services to hundreds of individuals including the elderly, immigrant and adult population.  Since its formation, GCCA continues its mission to improve the quality of life for the Chinese population residing in New York City most needing assistance.