[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors,

Art possesses a unique power to drive social change and spark action. By addressing pressing social and political issues, connecting communities, and advocating for sustainability, art becomes a catalyst for transformation. Socially engaged art can reshape narratives by fostering essential conversations and illuminating crucial issues.

I am constantly reminded of art's profound impact within my circle—my daughter, a gifted dancer, and my office staff, who range from visual to musical artists, champion art as a critical instrument for breaking the cycle of violence in urban and working-class communities. These areas, often scarred by economic strife, racial inequalities, and scant opportunities, have seen young artists turn to music, poetry, and dance as mediums to voice their struggles and emotions. Art not only unites people across diverse backgrounds but also provides a voice to marginalized communities, allowing their stories and struggles to be heard.

Recently, I had the honor of attending the Hip-Hop 51st Anniversary, March for Nonviolence and Urban Health, a vibrant assembly of hip-hop pioneers, anti-violence advocates, and community leaders. This gathering not only celebrated the art form's rich history but also highlighted its role in combating violence and addressing urban health challenges. Figures like KRS-One, Kurtis Blow, MC Lyte, Roxanne Shante, and MC Sha Rock not only reminisced about hip-hop’s journey but also discussed its powerful influence in fostering community cohesion and health awareness.

Over decades, hip-hop has transcended its roots as a musical genre to become a pivotal movement for empowerment and social change. It shines a spotlight on societal challenges, offers creative outlets for healing, and uplifts marginalized communities. This synergy between hip-hop and social initiatives continues to foster profound impacts, driving us toward a future where art remains a cornerstone of community resilience and enlightenment.

Listening to these legends, who have molded their narratives to empower and unite, reinforced the role of art in promoting social awareness and fostering positive change. Such gatherings underscore the potential of art to disrupt violence, enhance academic achievement, and cultivate a generation of community-focused individuals. 

Stay in the loop! 

I welcome you to continue reading this weekly update for information about valuable resources, and remember to scroll to the end to see our community updates. Stay updated by following my social media and signing up for our weekly e-updates. Your involvement is crucial as we work towards a fair future for all. Let’s make a difference together!

Peace & blessings,

RJ

*I invite you to continue reading this weekly update for valuable information on resources and employment opportunities. Stay safe!*

#CommunityFirst

Another Successful Senator On Your Corner!

This week, Team Jackson had the pleasure of engaging with our community at Ilka Tanya Payan Park on Broadway & W 157th Street in Washington Heights. We listened, learned, and gathered valuable insights to help drive meaningful change and keep District 31 moving forward

We look forward to seeing you at the next one!

Celebrating 42 Years of Dominican Pride at the Dominican Day Parade!

I was thrilled to join the vibrant Dominican community last Sunday in celebrating their 42nd annual National Dominican Day Parade. The streets were alive with energy, culture, and pride as we danced merengue together!

¡Arriba mi gente Dominicana!

CLOTH Annual Health Fair

I was thrilled to participate in the CLOTH Annual Health Fair in the Heights, a vibrant gathering that united all ages with an array of resources, exciting games, children's entertainment, and captivating musical performances. It was truly a celebration of community and health!

Access to Trees In Your Neighborhood

In the shadows of concrete jungles, many communities grapple with health inequities intensified by scarce green havens. Trees aren't just scenery—they're our frontline warriors against urban heat and health disparities. 

Check out this important infographic created by Team Jackson's interns! Share it to help spread awareness and encourage green initiatives in your neighborhood. Let's make our communities healthier together!

How to Access SNAP Benefits with Team Jackson's Essential Guide

SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, provides low-income individuals with nutritious food through monthly EBT benefits. 

Team Jackson's interns have created this essential infographic to assist families in our neighborhood in applying for SNAP benefits. Share this knowledge—let's ensure every table in our community has access to nutritious food because community comes first!

Senator Robert Jackson Joins TikTok

Team Jackson's interns worked their magic, and now I'm on TikTok! 

In our latest post, they asked about my key priority issues. Check out the video for my response. Follow @senatorrobertjackson for more updates, and let's spread the word together!

NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Deadline Extended!

Looking for funding to activate a local park or open space? The deadline to apply for the NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant has been extended to Friday, August 23, 2024, at 11:59 pm. 

The NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant program provides funding support from $1,000 to $40,000 per year, with the option of two-year funding, to foster a resilient network of equitable public green spaces across our city.

Questions about applying? Check out this info session which will walk you through the process of submitting a successful application. Ready to apply? Click here!

WHIN Food Council Scholarship Application is Open!

Cultivate your future with the WHIN Food Council Scholarship!

Since 2021, the WHIN Food Council has been empowering community members passionate about urban gardening, farming, and nutrition. This opportunity is open to all Washington Heights and Inwood residents eager to enhance their skills in these areas.

Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, WHIN is here to support your educational journey with scholarships of up to $500, available on a rolling basis. Priority is given to Washington Heights and Inwood residents, including BIPOC individuals and all immigration statuses. Apply here today and grow not just plants, but your future!

For questions, email whinfoodcouncil@gmail.com with the subject: “WHIN-FC Scholarship.”

Inwood Film Festival Filmmaker Fund Applications Now Open!

The Inwood Art Works has launched its Inwood Film Festival Filmmaker Fund, designed to support and encourage local filmmakers in the neighborhoods of Inwood, Washington Heights, Marble Hill, Kingsbridge, and Riverdale. 

Eligible filmmakers residing in Inwood, Washington Heights, Marble Hill, Kingsbridge, or Riverdale can apply for grants up to $5,000 to cover film project expenses for 2025.

Key Criteria:

• Must be a resident of the Inwood NYC community (the “Inwood NYC community” is defined as the neighborhoods of Inwood, Washington Heights, Marble Hill, Kingsbridge, and Riverdale).
• Must have at least one validated credit as Producer, Director, or primary Director of Photography.
• Projects should not be student films.
• Preference for locally based stories with cultural relevance.

Apply by September 30, 2024: Inwood Filmmaker Fund Application.

2024 Fellowship on Immigrant Integration 

Calling all SUNY & CUNY Grad Students!

Apply now for the 2024 Fellowship on Immigrant Integration at the Rockefeller Institute of Government! Dive into impactful research and policy analysis on immigrant integration, and help shape the future of our communities. This fall semester, be a part of a dynamic team, earn a $5,000 stipend, and work closely with experts—all while studying full-time. Visit this link for more information and to apply.

Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference!

Student OMNY Tapping

At the start of this school year, all eligible students will receive new Student OMNY Cards with expanded transit benefits. Beginning September 5th, students can tap their Student OMNY card to enjoy:

• Four free rides daily
• Available all day, not just during certain hours
• Usable every day of the year, including weekends and summer
• One card valid for the entire year

The new Student OMNY card is a faster, easier, and better way to ride! Learn more about the Student OMNY program here.  

Free Civics Classes For Green Card Holders

Unlock your path to U.S. citizenship with the New-York Historical Society's FREE citizenship preparation classes! Available online and in-person, this interactive program guides permanent residents through all 100 questions of the USCIS naturalization exam and prepares you for the interview process. Dive into your future today!

For more information or to register visit their website or call (212) 873-3400 ext.511.

New Rights Alert: Report Issues in Vacant Apartments by Calling 311!

Tenants can now call 311 to report problems in vacant apartments, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Coalition to End Apartment Warehousing. Organized tenants have fought hard to secure this right, ensuring that neglect in empty units can no longer go unnoticed.

Under Intro 195, tenants can report maintenance issues to the Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) department via 311, prompting city inspections of vacant units that pose hazards to occupied ones. Common complaints include trash, mold, open windows, leaky gas pipes, and rodents.

Enforce your rights: text 311-692 or call 3-1-1 to register your complaint today.

Summer EBT

New York State launched Summer EBT, a new program that provides low-income families with food benefits to help cover the cost of groceries when school is out of session. Families with eligible school-aged children will receive $120 in Summer EBT food benefits (per child) in 2024. Most eligible children will receive Summer EBT food benefits automatically; however, some families may need to apply.  

OTDA will not issue the Summer EBT food benefit before July 2024, and eligible children will receive benefits at different times throughout the summer, depending on whether or not they attend public or private school, and whether they receive benefits automatically or if they are determined eligible through an application, as outlined below. Visit OTDA.ny.gov/SummerEBT for updated benefit issuance information.

Free Summer Meals 

The New York City Public Schools will offer FREE breakfast and lunch meals to children (18 years old and younger) across the City. No identification or application is needed, and meals will be served Monday through Friday, with breakfast from 8 am to 9:15 am and lunch from 11 am to 1:15 pm at designated sites.

For a complete list of locations and further information, visit the DOE Summer Meals Website.

High School Summer Pass Program

Planet Fitness is announcing the start of its annual High School Summer Pass Program and is inviting teens ages 14 – 19 to work out for free at any of its Planet Fitness locations in New York this summer.

Until August 31st all New York high schoolers can enroll in the program here and have a healthy and safe summer!

Social Security Video Connect

Unlock a world of convenience right at your fingertips with Social Security Video Connect! 

Dedicated to providing efficient and equitable service, the Social Security Administration now offers the ability to manage your needs remotely. Whether you need to apply for benefits, discuss overpayments, or update personal information, do it all from the comfort of your home using any Microsoft Teams compatible device (desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone with a web camera).

Schedule your video appointment today by calling 1-800-772-1213 or contacting your local Social Security office. Available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Step into the future of service—efficient, personal, and just a click away!

Expanded Essential Plan Coverage

Starting this month, coverage was extended to New Yorkers with incomes up to 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). MetroPlus announced its commitment to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to more New Yorkers, ensuring that over 100,000 individuals will have access to high-quality health insurance at $0 monthly premiums and low-cost sharing. This expansion alleviates the burden on New Yorkers, reducing the need for difficult financial decisions.

To see if you qualify for $0 coverage, please reach out to MetroPlus at 866-496-6636. Their lines are open Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 8 PM (ET), and on Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM (ET). For more details, you can also visit this link.

PA'LANTE Tenants Resources Zoom Webinars

Join PA'LANTE's Zoom webinars this month! 

Their webinars will cover a diverse range of housing topics, providing valuable insights and resources for tenants. Stay informed and empowered by attending these informative sessions. Visit their webinar page at this link to find out more and secure your spot today!

Free Online Therapy for NYC Teens

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is offering free 1-on-1 mental health support powered by Talkspace to teenagers aged 13-17 living in NYC."

Talkspace is an online therapy service that connects individuals with a licensed mental health therapist. Users can communicate regularly with their dedicated Talkspace therapists via text, voice, or video, providing privacy and convenience from their computer or smartphone.

To access their services, please visit their website here.

BronxWorks is Hiring

BronxWorks is currently hiring and has 500 positions available in the Bronx! BronxWorks is dedicated to enhancing the economic and social well-being of individuals and families. From toddlers to seniors, they provide nourishment, shelter, education, and assistance to our neighbors, contributing to the development of a stronger Bronx community.

To apply, please visit here.

Free Coursera Courses

The New York State Department of Labor has partnered with Coursera, a leading online training provider, to offer unemployed New Yorkers access to nearly 4,000 programs in high-growth industries. These programs cover data science, business, and technology, leading to certifications and enhancing your career prospects. 

A team of New York State experts curates content based on industry demand to help job seekers acquire needed skills. This online learning via Coursera is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration.

To sign up, visit here or request a no-cost account by emailing labor.sm.Coursera.Register@labor.ny.gov with your First Name, Last Name, Email Address for the Account, Phone Number, and County of Residence.

The Tenant Helpline

The Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (PEU) has introduced a vital resource for New Yorkers: the live-operator Tenant Helpline. This unique Tenant Helpline serves as an invaluable resource for informing New York City tenants about their rights and linking them with housing-related assistance, including free legal services. The recently launched live-call system stands as a crucial lifeline for tenants confronting possible eviction, landlord harassment, or unsatisfactory living conditions. 

To access this resource, simply dial 311 and request the "Tenant Helpline."

State Efforts to Connect Asylum Seekers and Migrants to Jobs

The New York State Department of Labor is assisting with connecting employers to asylum seekers and migrants who already have or are on the path to receiving work authorizations.

In an effort to build a pipeline of job opportunities for these eligible job seekers, The New York State Department of Labor launched a new portal enabling businesses to inform the State that they would welcome individuals into their workforce once they have work authorization.

If you have opportunities and would be interested in considering newly authorized individuals, please complete the form to get connected to a Business Services Associate to discuss your needs.

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. 

To find the legal dispensaries near you visit this link.

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.

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.

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.

MT. Hope Health Fair

Join Mt. Hope Family Practice for their health fair on August 24th, from 9 am to 1 pm at 130 West Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453. Register as a new patient, book vaccine appointments, get your blood pressure checked, and gather info on back-to-school physicals. Plus, grab free book bags and supplies while they last! 

Don’t miss out!

Fort Fridge Volunteer Sign-up

Step into service this August with Fort Fridge community fridge in Washington Heights. The Fort Fridge team is seeking volunteers to help as greeters, caretakers, and drivers. Your hands are needed on deck— click here to sign up and be the heart of our community!

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. 

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

Work on Broadway Bridge

From Monday, August 19, to Friday, August 30, NYCDOT will perform the installation of steel, mechanical, and electrical components on the Broadway Bridge.

During this period:

• Right lane closures will be implemented in both directions from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. 
• Alternating center lane closures in either direction will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
• Alternating sidewalk closures will be in effect.

Please be advised that at least one lane of traffic and one sidewalk will be kept open at all times. The schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions. Refer to the attached notices for further details.

Film Works Alfresco!

I'm proud to sponsor Film Works Alfresco, New York City’s only free outdoor cinema series in both English and Spanish. Organized by Inwood Art Works, it showcases independent and popular films that culturally resonate with the Northern Manhattan community. This seasonal series not only expands public access to professional filmmaking but also reflects the diversity of the community it serves.

Visit this link here for the list of films, dates and time of showings.

Uptown Stories Spring Workshops 

Uptown Stories empowers young writers aged 8 to 18 with the tools they need to express their unique narratives. Summer classes will meet for 1-2 weeks July-August offering students a space to explore the craft of writing, ignite their imaginations, and connect with a vibrant community of writers.

Register now at UptownStories.org or contact them at (929) 277-8679. Find them at 178 Bennett Avenue, NY, NY 10040.

Red Cross Needs Volunteers

Transform your compassion into action by volunteering with the American Red Cross. Communities rely on the Red Cross daily, and the need is especially critical during the summer. Whether aiding those affected by disasters like fires and floods or supporting lifesaving blood collection, your efforts make a real difference. With ninety percent of the workforce being dedicated volunteers, there's a role for everyone. 

Find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you and make a meaningful difference. Visit this link to volunteer!

Riverside Park Conservancy - Volunteer Opportunity 

Be part of an opportunity to start a volunteer group to help take care of the Fort Washington Courts! This initiative aims to enhance the upkeep of both the Tennis Courts located at 172nd St and the Soccer Fields near 165th Street.

For more information, email stephanie@riversideparknyc.org or call/text 646-899-5694. To sign up visit this link to fill out a form or scan the QR code on the flyer below. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of something special!

Volunteer at West Side Campaign Against Hunger 

West Side Campaign Against Hunger (WSCAH) is looking for volunteers to assemble and pack food boxes with fresh produce and shelf-stable food items. This is a great opportunity to volunteer at their new warehouse in Washington Heights!

There are two shifts to choose from: 

• 10:15 am - 12:30 pm 
• 12:15 pm - 2:30 pm

Scan the QR code to sign up for a volunteer shift or visit wscah.org/volunteer.

Community District Needs Survey for Public Input!

Every year, New York City’s 59 local Community Boards prepare a “Community District Needs” (CD Needs) statement identifying the funding priorities for their districts. Community boards are currently gathering input for the Fiscal Year 2025 Community District Needs Statement.

These statements are key to informing the City’s neighborhood and infrastructure planning and the equitable and efficient delivery of services to communities citywide. City agencies must respond to community board budget requests in the City’s annual budget.

You can fill out the survey online here.

Share Your Input Now!

Free Museum Passes

New York City public libraries (New York & Bronx) are offering free museum passes when you sign up for a Culture Pass. Find out more about the program, including which institutions and museums are participating here.

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 to 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 and include any questions you may have about the position.

In solidarity, 

RJ