[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors, 

This weekend, we pay tribute to our fallen military personnel who bravely served in the armed forces. Many will commemorate Memorial Day weekend by gathering with family and friends over a nice barbecue. If the weather permits, some will also seize the opportunity to relish the reopening of our New York City public beaches, where swimming activities will officially resume. 

One of the best ways to honor our heroes is to continue to fight and defend our freedoms and rights to human decency in our very own backyards. This month, my office has continued to expand our #CommunityFirst mission by forging partnerships within our communities. My satellite offices in some of the Bronx libraries are successfully providing improved access to services for Bronx constituents in the senatorial district. Additionally, we are collaborating with the Met Council on Housing and CUNY in the Heights to deliver a Tenant Rights Clinic Series. The clinic has been so successful that we are currently speaking with our partners to expand these services into the summer months. These events have proved invaluable, offering tenants the opportunity to seek free, personalized advice from seasoned tenant advocates and attorneys regarding their rights and strategies for safeguarding them.

In line with the office’s mission, I have taken part in several initiatives about community action. This includes sponsoring a Bronx Public Bank Town Hall, advocating against unjust rent increases, and supporting educators in their pursuit of fair contracts. 

On a final but sad note, we continue to hear how gun violence is overcoming our daily lives throughout the country and in our neighborhoods. Please refer to the "Upcoming Events" section to learn more about our youth using the arts to combat this disease and how to participate in a gun violence awareness event.

I welcome you to continue reading this weekly update for information about valuable resources and don't forget to scroll to the end to see our community updates. I hope you all have a chance to spend some quality time with your loved ones and remember to be kind, and please stay safe!

Peace & blessings, 

RJ 

#CommunityFirst

Supporting MTA Elevator Staff 

After learning about the recent decision made by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to remove staff from the 168th St. (A&1), 181 St. (A&1), 190th St. (A), and 191 St. (1) train stations, my office, on behalf of our Washington Heights constituents, drafted a letter inviting other legislators to join us in expressing our deep concern. Together we strongly urge the MTA to reverse this decision, effective July 1, 2023, and to carefully evaluate the direct impact it will have on subway riders in our district, as well as on the livelihood of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 100 MTA staff members who currently hold these positions.

The subway serves as a vital lifeline for both residents and visitors of Washington Heights, facilitating essential transportation for work, school, and daily cultural activities. Regrettably, the significant increase in violent incidents at train stations throughout New York City has greatly eroded public trust in the safety of our subway system. We harbor deep concerns that reducing the presence of MTA personnel near station elevators will have adverse effects on the security and well-being of our constituents.

Furthermore, it is crucial to highlight the commendable reputation of the TWU workers who operate our Washington Heights elevators. Many of them are long-serving MTA employees and residents of the neighborhood, forging a strong bond between them and our constituents.

You can find the full text of the letter below.

CEC10 Legislative Dinner

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the CEC10 Legislative Dinner in the Bronx, an event brimming with enthusiastic school administrators, educators, and parent leaders who share a common goal: to ensure outstanding education for our remarkable students.

The evening's pinnacle was an awe-inspiring display of music and dance, showcasing the exceptional talents and unwavering dedication of our young students, who are undoubtedly the stars of tomorrow!

UFT Rally for Fair Contract

I joined educators and education activists at the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) rally, advocating for a fair contract for our committed teachers!

I took great pride in joining forces with them, gathering at Virginia Park in the Bronx and at the Adam Clayton Powell Building in Harlem. Collectively, we voiced our demand for the respect and support that our dedicated educators deserve. 

Annual Esther Lustig Memorial Basketball Classic vs. Assembly/Senate All-Stars

I had an amazing experience serving as a referee at the 26th Annual Esther Lustig Memorial Basketball Classic, where the Assembly/Senate All-Stars faced off against the talented athletes from the Lexington School for the Deaf.

The atmosphere was electric, and I want to give a special shoutout to the exceptional athletes who showcased their skills and to my fellow colleagues for their efforts. Heartfelt congratulations to the Lexington School for the Deaf on their remarkable 61-47 victory!

Bill of the Week

This section highlights and explains legislation that I sponsor or strongly support in the 2023 legislative session.

Bill Alert!

I'm delighted to inform you that my bill, Judith Kaye School Solutions Not Suspensions Act, is at the forefront of the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus 2023 Peoples Agenda! New York State must guarantee a quality education for every child, regardless of race, ability, or zip code.

Bill of the Week

The Bill of the Week is Good Cause Eviction Act (S305), which would give every good tenant in New York the ability to stay in their homes as long as they keep paying their rent. 

This legislation aims to safeguard tenants' rights and to curb unjust evictions. As the growing issue of tenant displacement plagues the state, this bill seeks to end the de facto evictions orchestrated by profit-driven landlords. Countless individuals and families find themselves uprooted from their homes as landlords prioritize higher profits over the well-being of their tenants. Through the non-renewal of residential leases, landlords effectively force out long-term residents to make way for wealthier individuals. Recognizing this pervasive problem, the Good Cause Eviction Act is designed to halt these unfair practices.

Under this crucial legislation, landlords will be prohibited from evicting residential tenants without just cause. Section 214 of the bill clearly defines the criteria that constitute "good cause" for eviction, ensuring tenants can only be displaced for legitimate reasons. By establishing these guidelines, the act aims to protect vulnerable tenants from arbitrary and unwarranted evictions, providing them with much-needed stability and security.

The Good Cause Eviction Act represents a step towards a fairer and more equitable housing landscape. By prioritizing the rights and well-being of tenants, this legislation aims to restore balance and address the systemic imbalances that have allowed unjust evictions to persist.

For more on this bill, visit here for details. 

Gun Violence Awareness Evening of Action & Vigil

On June 2nd, my office will host a “National Gun Violence Awareness Evening of Vigil and Action.” The event will take place at the J. Hood Wright Park (entry point at 173rd St. & Fort Washington Ave.) from 5 to 7 pm. We encourage all from Uptown and the Bronx to come out in solidarity with the families and wear the color orange in memory of the victims of gun violence.

Bronx Satellite Office

We continue to offer Bronx constituents of District 31 better access to our services with two satellite offices!

Here are the locations, times, and dates:

Jerome Park Library

Address: 118 Eames Place Bronx, NY 10468

Hours:  10 am – 5 pm

Dates:   June 7

Sedgwick Library

Address: 1701 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Bronx, NY 10453

Hours:  10:30 am – 5 pm

Dates:  June 21

For more information, please call my office at 212.544.0173.

Portraits Against Gun Violence The Exhibit!

Join Artistic Noise, SeedCo, and my office on June 9, 2023, from 4 pm to 5 pm at 513 W 207th St, NY, NY 10034, as we proudly present "Portraits Against Gun Violence the Exhibit." This photography initiative and collaborative art project aims to shed light on the profound impact of gun violence on individuals and communities in Washington Heights and Inwood.

Through a collection of powerful photographic portraits and poignant first-person accounts, we invite you to delve into the complex realities faced by those affected by gun violence. Explore the raw emotions, stories of resilience, and the struggles endured by individuals who have experienced the devastating consequences of firearms in our city.

For more information, call 646-256-7296 or email info@artisticnoise.org.

ERAP Update

Applications submitted before the application portal closed on January 20, 2023, including applications from subsidized housing tenants whose rent is limited to a certain percentage of income (including public housing, section 8, and FHEPS), are being reviewed and processed in the order received, consistent with State law and program rules. 

Tenants and landlords may continue to upload required documentation through the ERAP Portal for pending submitted applications. Please check the OTDA website for timely updates: Emergency Rental Assistance Program | OTDA (ny.gov).

Planet Fitness Invites High Schoolers to Work Out Free All Summer

Planet Fitness invites high school students ages 14 –19 to work out for FREE at any Planet Fitness locations in New York now through August 31 as part of the High School Summer Pass program.

High schoolers can visit this link to register for the program!

Bard Early College

Bard College and the New York City Department of Education are teaming up to launch a new, public early college high school in the South Bronx in September 2023. Bard High School Early College Bronx will provide high school students with an exceptional chance to earn a Bard College AA degree and 60 transferable college credits, entirely free of cost to students and their families. With a core curriculum in biomedical sciences and liberal arts, the school also offers extensive guidance on postsecondary options and credit transfer, internships, and applied learning opportunities, particularly in biomedical sciences, as well as robust student support structures.

Discover more about this innovative program at www.bard.edu/earlycollege or reach out to bronx@bhsec.bard.edu.

Community Impact and Innovation Grant Program

Shipt is now accepting applications for its Community Impact and Innovation Grant program, continuing its investment in building healthy, resilient, and more equitable communities. This year, they are thrilled to extend support to more organizations through the third grant cycle of this program – offering community organizations and nonprofits in our state the opportunity to receive funding and greater visibility. Applications are open today and will close on June 15. 

If you know of a deserving organization or nonprofit in our community, please direct them here to learn more and apply before June 15.

For more information about the program visit Shipt’s newsroom.

ARC Shuttle information

Moriah has partnered with ARC XVI Ft. Washington, Inc. to provide daily shuttle service between 184th Street & Overlook Terrace to 190th and Overlook Terrace and back from 190th Street and Fort Washington Ave. to 184th Street & Fort Washington Ave. from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, Monday-Friday.

The shuttle service is available to those registered with transportation, and someone will be at the stops to register you if necessary. We hope this helps in some small way while the subway tunnel is undergoing repair and encourages seniors to call the transportation office at 929-431-5128 to register over the phone or register inside the bus with one of the transportation clericals.

Scholarship for Aspiring Union Leaders

Are you interested in pursuing a leadership role in your union? The Union Leadership Institute (ULI) is a great way to develop your leadership skills. Hundreds of union members throughout the state have gone through the program, and many have since progressed to leadership positions within their respective unions. 

To help foster equity in the union movement, the NYS AFL-CIO Social Justice Task Force and Executive Council created the Union LEAD Scholarship to help union members from diverse backgrounds access the program. Any union member in good standing may apply with the approval of their union. 

The scholarship application deadline is June 1, 2023. Learn more about the program and the scholarship here.

NY DEP Internship Program

Are you looking for a unique and rewarding experience? The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) is offering paid and unpaid internships in a wide range of fields for undergraduate and graduate students. With fall, spring, and summer sessions, you have the opportunity to gain valuable experience while exploring the city. 

For internship information, visit here. For answers to commonly asked questions about our internships, visit Internship Opportunities FAQs.

Apply now and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity!

Cannabis Corner

If you have any questions about the CAURD license or have issues applying, please call 1-888-OCM-5151 (1-888-626- 5151) or contact licensing@ocm.ny.gov for assistance. 

Housing Programs for Low-Income Families

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides Housing Choice Vouchers to eligible low-income households. Learn more about these programs and check your eligibility here.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can help eligible New Yorkers cool their homes. If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year and could also be eligible for emergency HEAP benefits if you are in danger of having your utility service shut off.

Find out your eligibility here. Any questions regarding the HEAP program should be directed to your HEAP Local District Contact.

Half-priced MetroCard's for Eligible New Yorkers

Fair Fares NYC is here to make transportation more affordable for low-income New Yorkers. This city program offers discounted MetroCards. If you need assistance applying, please call 311 or visit a Fair Fares NYC location.

Undocumented Youth Internship Program

Applications are open for The Oyate Group’s Beyond Rising Internship Program for undocumented high schoolers! 

Oyate is looking for the next group of leaders who want to learn, grow, and have a blast this summer! Last year's interns gained career-readiness skills, built strong peer-to-peer networks, developed relationships with mentors, and explored New York City, including a trip to Six Flags. If you know any undocumented high-school youth aged 16-18 from the Bronx, Harlem, or Washington Heights, share!

The program runs from July 6 - August 11, 2023, and includes: 

• An internship placement in a Fordham University department
  
• A work schedule of Monday - Thursday from 10 AM - 4 PM
  
• A weekly stipend of $500 via Visa gift card
  
• Enrichment activities including trips, mentoring and more every Friday at the Oyate Group offices in the Bronx

For more information, click here to visit their website or submit an application through this link.

Your Path to Contracting with the City

New to, or interested in, contracting with the City of New York? 

Your Path to Contracting with the City is a visual representation of a vendor's typical roadmap to contracting with the City of New York. Click here to visit their resource page and obtain more information.

Student Loan Payment Pause Extended

The student loan payment pause is extended until the U.S. Department of Education is permitted to implement the debt relief program, or the litigation is resolved. If the debt relief program has not been implemented and the litigation has not been resolved by June 30, 2023 – payments will resume 60 days after that. We will notify borrowers before payments restart.

You can also visit here for more information.

Resources for Veterans

If you are a veteran who needs employment or career services, Acacia Network, Promesa Inc, and Seedco have launched a program that may help you. They are now enrolling homeless veterans, incarcerated veterans, female veterans, and veterans with families.

For information and referrals, call 646-499-1230 or email cstaten@promesa.org.

NMIC's Disability Assistance Program

If you have been recently denied Federal Disability benefits under the SSI or SSDI programs, NMIC has announced that they received a grant to provide legal services for those denied disability benefits. 

For more information about this program, please email Abe Greene at abrahamgreene@nmic.org or call (929) 415-8745 on Mondays from 9 am-1 pm. 

Supplemental Food Program for Seniors

The New York State Department of Health’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) offers free, healthy food to seniors ages 60 and older that live in New York City and Long Island.

For more information on the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, click here.

Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal program that helps low-income households pay for internet service. Eligible households could receive: 

• $30/month discount on your internet service
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer

Enroll today by visiting here.

Civil Service Exams

The NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) represents the largest local government in the U.S., with more than 400,000 employees and 80 agencies. They are providing plenty of career opportunities with great benefits.

The City Jobs and Civil Service announcements for upcoming exams can be found here. Fee waivers are available for UI recipients and New York City residents and receiving full benefits (Cash, Medicaid, and Food Stamps).

Free Cancer Screening for the Uninsured 

The Manhattan Cancer Services Program at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital (NYP)  is hosting free Cancer screening for uninsured women & men. They will offer breast and cervical screening for women age 40 or older and colorectal screening for those age 45 or older. For more information or for an appointment, call (212) 851-4516.

CaringKind Programs and Services

CaringKind is an Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving organization that works directly with community partners to develop the information, tools, and training to support individuals and families affected by dementia. They provide a helpline staffed by Dementia Care Specialists trained to provide you with the most up-to-date information, education, and support regarding dementia. To access their services, please visit their updated CKConnection form available online here. For more information on any of CaringKind’s Programs and Services, please call the CaringKind Helpline: 646-744-2900 or visit us at www.caringkindnyc.org.

Gun Violence Prevention Initiative  

New York State has launched a long-term jobs program that will serve unemployed, underemployed, and out-of-school young New Yorkers ages 18-24 in areas impacted by high rates of gun violence.

Youth can sign up to participate in our partnership with the Consortium for Worker Education, the workforce development arm of the NYC Central Labor Council. If you’re between 18 and 24 and are interested in job training and placement services, please register here to obtain job training and placement in good, long-term jobs. Please note that youth enrolled in college or university will not be eligible. For more information, please visit this link.

Maintenance Work on the Broadway Bridge 

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) will continue to work on installing electrical conduits, constructing interior walls of the control deck, and repairing the bridge deck of the Broadway Bridge over the Harlem River through Friday, June 2. As a result, the right lane in both directions will be closed between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. 

In addition, alternate closures of the central lanes in the direction of Bronx - Manhattan (but not both times) will occur between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The actual closure of the Bronx Manhattan approach will be in effect.

University Ave., Tremont Ave. to Kingsbridge Rd. Transit Improvements

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) gears up for transit transformation on University Ave., Tremont Ave., to Kingsbridge Rd. 

Upcoming enhancements include curbside and camera-enforced bus lanes, upgraded bus stops, and a brand new two-way bike path, along with freshly painted curb spaces. For more details, read the flyer below.

Reading In The Garden With NYPL

Join the Inwood New York Public Library and Literacy Inc.(LINC) for a fun-filled day at the Ring Garden! 

Families can expect an engaging read-aloud, singing, and dancing activities for all ages. Plus, all registered families will receive a FREE BOOK to take home. Don't miss out on this opportunity to bond over literacy and fun! 

You can join them at the Met Cloisters (99 Margaret Corbin Dr. NY, NY) on May 30 at 11:30 am - sign up here.

If you would like more information, you can contact Rocio Apolonio at rapolonio@lincnyc.org. 

Planned Service Change to the A Train

Due to signal improvements, there will be no A train service between 168 St and Inwood-207 St during the following weekend:

• Friday, May 26, 2023, at 9:45 pm through Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 5:00 am (includes Memorial Day)

A trains will run between Far Rockaway-Mott Av/Ozone Park-Lefferts Blvd and 168 St, the last stop.

1 trains will make nearby stops between 168 St-Washington Hts and 207 St.

Free Broadway shuttle buses will make stops between 168 St and Inwood-207 St.

Free Fort Washington Av shuttle buses make stops between 168 St and 190 St. 

As always, please consult the MTA website or the MyMTA app for the latest service information and alternative service options. Customers can also call 511 for service-related information and customer service. To stay up-to-date on weekend service, customers can sign up for our MTA Weekender newsletter.

Community Garden Day

Join Washington Heights/Inwood Food Council (WHIN) for its first Community Garden Day of 2023! Help harvest produce that's ready to take home and plant for our summer crops. The event will take place at the Riley Levin Children Garden, located at 3703 10th Ave; come on Saturday, May 27, from 1-3 PM. 

All ages are welcome to participate!

Harlem River Greenway Tour

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant waterfront on Saturday, June 3rd. Join the NYC Department of Planning, NYCDOT, and the Harlem River Working Group for an exciting tour of the scenic Harlem River Greenway as part of the NYC 520 Celebration. 

The meeting point is at 9 am, right by the Roberto Clemente Statue at the entrance to Roberto Clemente State Park (301 Tremont Avenue). At 9:30 am, the group will embark on the walk along the Harlem River Greenway, culminating at the iconic High Bridge in Manhattan.

As you arrive in Manhattan, immerse yourself in the festivities at the Sunken Playground in Highbridge Park, where the Hike the Heights 19th Annual Event is taking place. Discover the beauty of the Harlem River Greenway and be part of the NYC 520 and NYC Waterfront celebrations.

¡Vive Tu Vida! Get Up! Get Moving!

Join the Hispanic Federation & National Alliance for Hispanic Health Expo in Washington Heights!

Experience a day of wellness, education, and fun at the 17th annual ¡Vive Tu Vida! Get Up! Get Moving! event. Discover healthy living through health screenings, physical activities, vaccines, and more. Save the date: June 3, 2023, from 11 AM to 4:30 PM at Carnaval de Boulevard, St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10033.

Highbridge Water Tower Tour with UPR

Discover the fascinating history and stunning architecture of the Highbridge Water Tower with the Urban Park Rangers (UPR). On June 4th, join them for an engaging tour from 1 pm to 3 pm. No reservations required! These tours take place every first Sunday and 3rd Saturday of the month, offering an exciting opportunity to explore this iconic landmark.

Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Neighborhood Fest

Join us at Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) for the 10th annual Neighborhood Fest! On Friday, June 16, from 3-6 pm, immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of community. Admission is free, so stop by and enjoy live music, food, and fun activities for all ages. The event will take place at 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace, Bronx, NY 10463.

For more information, call (718) 884-0700 ext. 100 or visit here. Don't miss out on this exciting event!

Aging Strong- Highlighting Strength and Resilience Among Older Adults

Join Washington Heights & Inwood Council on Aging (WHICOA) for their first in-person conference since the pandemic! This year's theme, "Aging Strong," celebrates the resilience and strength of older adults. Co-sponsored by ARC XVI, Yeshiva University, and other esteemed organizations, this event will showcase the remarkable stories of seniors. 

Attend in person or virtually on Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 9 am to 2 pm at Yeshiva University Belfer Hall in NYC. Don't miss this free event—click here to register!

Black History 365 - Break Every Chain: A Celebration of Juneteenth

Join the North Manhattan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (NMAC) for an empowering celebration of African American and Caribbean history and culture at the Black History 365 - Break Every Chain: A Celebration of Juneteenth, African American Music Month & Caribbean Heritage Month!

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to experience music, entertainment, giveaways, and more on Sunday, June 18th, 2023, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Fort Washington Collegiate Church. Admission is free, and youth must be accompanied by an adult. For inquiries, email BHM@nmacdst.org.

Cabrini Immigrant Services Food Pantry

The Cabrini Immigrant Services Food Pantry operates Saturdays from 7:30 - 9 AM year-round at Church of the Good Shepherd (630 Isham Street, New York, NY 10034). They serve hundreds of families each month, distributing bags of food that include nutritionally diverse and culturally appropriate selections. They prioritize offering fresh produce to their clients and have received recognition for our program from the City of New York.

For more information about their Food Pantry, contact their Food Pantry Coordinator, Paul Kwon, at 212-791-4590 ext. 102 or foodpantry@cis-nyc.org.

Fort Tryon Park Events

Fort Tryon Park hosts weekly activities for people of all ages.Visit here for the list of activities that will be going on in Fort Tryon Park during the rest of the month.

NAMI-NYC Events

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC) helps families and individuals affected by mental illness build better lives through education, support, and advocacy. Please visit here to view their calendar of events during the rest of the month.

Morris-Jumel Mansion Events

As Manhattan’s oldest surviving residence, the Morris-Jumel Mansion, built-in 1765, preserves, collects and interprets history, culture, and the arts to explore inclusive narratives that engage and inspire diverse audiences.

Visit here to see what's happening at the Mansion.

Met Council on Housing Mutual Aid Tenants’ Rights Hotline

Met Council on Housing seeks bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers for their Mutual Aid Tenants’ Rights Hotline team. The hotline serves thousands of tenants all over the city every year. Hotline Team Members answer questions on common tenant issues, inform callers of their rights and help them determine the best course of action to assert those rights. As part of their hotline team, you will be directly assisting tenants in need fight against their predatory, abusive landlords and stay in their homes.

If you’re interested in joining the hotline team, please email katee@metcouncilonhousing.org include any questions you may have about the position.

In solidarity, 

RJ