[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors,

Next week marks the 159th anniversary of Juneteenth, the oldest national commemoration of the abolition of slavery in the United States. This day invites us to reflect on the continuous struggle and triumphs in the pursuit of justice for Black Americans. Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder for us all to deeply contemplate the essence of freedom, particularly for African Americans, and its relevance not only within our nation but also globally.

The observance of Juneteenth transcends any singular narrative. It embodies multiple meanings for African descendants in the United States and resonates deeply with communities worldwide, particularly in Africa, the Caribbean, and other areas where the African diaspora is vibrant. It symbolizes a journey of resistance, recognition, and ongoing reflection.

Beyond its cultural significance, Juneteenth serves as a platform for political awareness. It prompts us to acknowledge the importance of engaging civically, to register to vote, and to be informed and involved in the workings of our communities.

In honor of the cultural significance of Juneteenth, I've compiled a list of staff favorites—films and books that offer varied and profound insights into the Black experience in America:

Films

• Limited docuseries, “The 1619 Project” - The critically acclaimed book, "The 1619 Project" by Nikole Hannah-Jones, has been expanded into a limited docuseries of six episodes. This series highlights the connection between slavery in history and the troubling racism still present in many parts of modern American life.

• “Origin,” written and directed by Ava DuVernay, the Academy Award-winning director of "13th" (another outstanding film), chronicles the tragedy and triumph of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Isabel Wilkerson as she investigates a global phenomenon of epic proportions for her book "Caste."

• "I Am Not Your Negro" is a 2016 documentary film directed by Raoul Peck, based on James Baldwin’s unfinished manuscript, Remember This House. Narrated by actor Samuel L. Jackson, the film explores the history of racism in the United States through Baldwin’s reminiscences of civil rights leaders Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr., as well as his keen observations of American history.

 Books

• Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates, praised by Toni Morrison as "required reading," offers a bold and deeply personal literary journey through America's racial landscape. Coates is heralded as his generation's most significant essayist, and a transformative voice in the national dialogue on race.

• Austin Channing Brown's I’m Still Here offers a powerful exploration from a critical voice in racial justice. This memoir reveals her experiences as a Black, Christian woman, challenging the superficial embrace of diversity in white America. Brown calls on readers to break through indifference, engage with divine action in our lives, and embrace how true understanding of blackness can lead to societal redemption.

• Caste - Pulitzer Prize-winning author Isabel Wilkerson delves into the hidden caste system that has profoundly influenced America. With eloquent prose and profound insights, Wilkerson reveals how our present lives remain entwined within a complex hierarchy of human divisions. By unraveling the stories of individuals and examining the historical context, "Caste" uncovers the underlying realities beneath seemingly ordinary lives, offering a powerful reexamination of contemporary American society.

• Four Hundred Souls is a powerful collaboration between Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain, bringing together an ensemble of exceptional voices to chronicle the remarkable four-hundred-year odyssey of African Americans from 1619 to the present. This collective work offers a profound historical account that sheds light on our past and provides fresh perspectives for envisioning our future. 

Juneteenth is dynamic, it demands active participation and a deep understanding of its origins and its evolving significance across the diaspora. It’s a day to be fully present, intentionally celebrating not only its historical roots but also its enduring relevance.

Rent Guidelines Board Final Vote Hearing

This year, nearly one million rent-stabilized New York City residents face new challenges as the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) preliminarily approved rent hikes of 2%-4.5% for one-year leases and 4%-6.5% for two-year leases. In a city grappling with high rental costs, these increases significantly burden young graduates, families, and fixed-income seniors. It's essential for residents to voice their concerns at the RGB's final vote on June 17. 

The Public Meeting, set for Monday, June 17 at 7 P.M., will be held at the Assembly Hall in Hunter College, located at East 69th Street (between Park & Lexington Avenues), New York, NY 10065. 

Early Voting Begins!

I want to remind everyone that there is a primary this month. Early Voting Period is Saturday, June 15, 2024 - Saturday, June 23, 2024. Please visit here for information on early and absentee voting and where you can vote.

Stay in the loop! 

As summer approaches, we are thrilled to bring our constituent services directly to you through the "Senator On Your Corner" series across District 31. 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. 

Lastly, Eid al-Adha is upon us. Eid Mubarak to all who observe it. On this blessed day, may your life be filled with the spirit of sharing, love, and compassion.

Peace & blessings,

RJ

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

#CommunityFirst

From Neglect to Justice: The Rise of a Tenants' Movement

Last week I joined tenants of 705-709 W. 170th Street during their press conference advocating to gain control over their building.

Two years ago, I entered 705-709 W. 170th Street and found a community suffering without gas, heat, collapsing ceilings, and broken door locks—a clear sign of neglect. When asked if they had a tenants association, the answer was "no." That night, we formed one on the stoop under the streetlights, sparking a movement for change.

Together, we demanded justice. On August 4, 2022, my office engaged the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to address the deplorable conditions. With the support of Met Council and Manhattan Legal Services, the tenants organized and presented a lawsuit. Additionally, the Office of the NYC Public Advocate placed the landlord on the Worst Landlord Watchlist—a tool for tenants, officials, and advocates to identify property owners who consistently violate city laws.

The efforts culminated in HPD issuing an arrest warrant for the negligent landlord, a significant victory that echoed a strong message to absentee landlords about the necessity of accountability.

However, the struggle continues. The tenants of 705-709 W. 170th Street are now advocating for Mhany's management to help them take control of their building, fighting for their right to safe and dignified housing—a fundamental human right. United, we persist to make this right inalienable for all.

Community Success Story: A Win for Tenant Rights!

Last week, we were thrilled to celebrate a victory for our constituent, Pablo Amparo of Inwood. After enduring three years of unsafe living conditions, Pablo's home finally received the essential repairs it desperately needed. These included a new bathroom sink, mold removal, kitchen leak repairs, a new refrigerator, and the restoration of cracked walls.

Pablo reached out to my office, and Team Jackson sprang into action, coordinating with the landlord and city officials to ensure these repairs were made. 

In New York City, every tenant deserves to live in a safe, well-maintained environment, free from vermin, leaks, and hazardous conditions. Team Jackson is here to make that a reality.

If you or someone you know has a Community Success Story to share from an experience with my office, please send a brief description and photos to Jackson@nysenate.gov.

Bill of the Week

This section highlights and explains legislation that I sponsored or co-sponsored and will fight for in the 2024 legislative session.

In case you missed it last week, here it is again: Bill S351, the Inclusive Curriculum in NY Act, which amends the education law to promote inclusive instruction and instructional materials.

Why Does This Bill Matter?⁣

As New York is the historic home of many of these communities and social movements, it is fitting and appropriate that our state fully tells their stories now so that our students' understanding prepares them for a more inclusive worldview.

The LGBTQIA+ communities are an integral and essential part of New York and the United States. Many of the members of these communities have broken barriers and paved the way for a more inclusive, tolerant, and understanding society.

Adding a curriculum that includes teaching about the political, economic, and social contributions and lifeways of these communities provides students with opportunities to learn about their journeys, accomplishments, and achievements. 

What the bill does:

The purpose of this bill is to include instruction and adopt instructional materials in schools that accurately portray the political, economic, and social contributions and lifeways of LGBTQIA+ people.

This piece of legislation requires school districts and charter schools to establish a task force to make recommendations on model curriculum or instruction on the political, economic, and social contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people, in an appropriate place in the curriculum of middle school and high school students.

Embracing Diversity: Recognizing LGBTQIA+ Contributions to Society

This bill does not legislate morality. Rather, this bill teaches that members of the LGBTQIA+ communities are an integral and essential part of our society that continues to shape our world. 

For more on this bill, visit here for details.

Summer EBT

Starting July 2024, New York State will launch 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.

Senior Affordable Housing Lottery - Bronx, NY

The lottery is now open for the Volunteers of America-Greater New York's new Andrews Avenue South Senior Residence, offering affordable housing specifically designed for seniors. Located at 1746 Andrews Avenue in the Morris Heights neighborhood of the Bronx, the residence features a 24-hour attended front desk, a fitness center, and a community room, enhancing both security and community engagement. 

Don't miss this opportunity—apply HERE now! 

Apply Now for Affordable Housing at Starhill Phase I!

Applications are open until July 30, 2024, for affordable housing at Starhill Phase I, located at 1600 Grand Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453. Be aware that rents and income limits are subject to change, and asset limits may apply. Note that minimum incomes may not apply to applicants with Section 8 or other qualifying rental subsidies.

We encourage you to apply online at www.nyc.gov/housingconnect or request a paper application and advertisement. Applications are available in multiple languages: English, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu.

To request a paper application, write to:

STARHILL PHASE I

c/o Bronx Pro Group  

1605 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Bronx, NY 10453  

Submit your online application by July 30, 2024, or ensure your paper application is postmarked by the same date. Only one application per household is allowed. Don’t miss this opportunity for affordable housing!

Summer Rising: Extended Hours & More Seats!

Exciting news! The city has restored funding to the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), allowing for extended hours and additional seats for middle school Summer Rising programs. 

New Hours:

July 2 - August 9

• Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Academic Instruction: Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• Enrichment Activities: Monday to Thursday, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

For more details and to secure a spot, visit the Summer Rising page.

Free Summer Meals 

Starting June 27, 2024, 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.

From June 1 to 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!

Columbia Cancer Center Student Summer Program

Columbia Cancer Center welcomes students to participate in a free online summer enrichment program at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. Upon completion, participants will be awarded a certificate. To register for the Scientific Enrichment Month, click here. For inquiries, contact canceredu@cumc.columbia.edu.

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.

Department of Labor Virtual Career Center

The Department of Labor (DOL) provides virtual resources for job seekers, including resume assistance. To access the Virtual Career Center, you will need an NY.GOV account. If you already have one, you're good to go.

The Department encourages everyone to take advantage of these Career Centers and the services they offer to find a career they're passionate about. For more details on accessing the virtual career centers, follow the steps below:

• Visit the Virtual Career Center on the Department’s website.
• Under the “New Virtual Career Center” section, select the link to the labor.ny.gov website.
• Log in to your NY.GOV account or register for one if you have not created an account.
• Click the “Virtual Career Center” button and find your next career!

This is your opportunity to reimagine your career and discover a job you truly love!

Manhattan Community Board 12 is Hiring!

Community Board 12 is now hiring for both Full-time and Part-time positions! If you're passionate about serving Manhattan and eager to contribute to positive change, they want to hear from you.

Visit this link to explore available positions and submit your application today. Don't miss out on this chance to be part of something truly special. Apply now and let your journey with Community Board 12 begin!

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.

LINC Is Hiring!

Join the literacy movement! 

Literacy Inc. (LINC) is currently hiring for multiple positions for its community-based initiative, dedicated to nurturing lifelong learners and empowering parents as literacy advocates. If you're passionate about early literacy development, apply here to make a difference in our community. 

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.

NWBCCC Block Party

Join the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) for a vibrant afternoon at their Block Party on June 15, from 12 to 3 PM! Enjoy fun activities, community building, and access to valuable resources in housing, health, and small business. 

For more information, contact Julie Colon at julie@northwestbronx.org.

“Know Noise” - Community Education Event

Join "Know Noise" on June 16th for the first-ever study on the sleep health impacts of noise in Washington Heights and Inwood! Hosted by the WaHI-Inwood Task Force on Noise, this event will take place at the Haven Plaza from 1 pm to 3 pm. 

Co-hosted by The Center for Environmental Health and Justice in Northern Manhattan and Stop the Chop NY/NJ, the event will feature live noise impact demonstrations, a research panel led by Environmental Psychologist Dr. Arline Bronzaft, and community discussions. Partake in a pivotal discussion on shaping a quieter, healthier community. Food and beverages will be served.

Jazz Power Initiative's Free Concerts Uptown!

Don't miss out this June on an extraordinary series of free community concerts, brought to you by Jazz Power Initiative in collaboration with the Community League of The Heights (CLOTH). Their 2024 Community Artist-in-Residence, Steven Oquendo, has curated a spectacular lineup of local and international Latin jazz legends for Latin Jazz In The Heights. 

Mark your calendars for these unforgettable performances:

• Sunday, June 16th: Annette A. Aguilar & StringBeans Latin Jazz
• Saturday, June 22nd: Steven Oquendo's Ocho Con Afinque
• Saturday, June 29th: Alex “Apolo” Ayala & The Bámbula Project

And don’t miss the Intergenerational Jazz Power Festival on Saturday, June 15th, starting at 3 p.m. at Pat's Lawn, Inwood Hill Park. Enjoy the soulful sounds of the Steven Oquendo Latin Jazz Orchestra, celebrate jazz sheros with Antoinette Montague, and experience the vibrant performances of the All City High School Latin Ensemble and Zah! Jr. with Dr. E and Jazz Power.

Dyckman St A- Train Stairwell Repair

The MTA began the stairwell repair work at the Dyckman Street A-Train Station.

Mobilization has begun at the Dyckman Street Station stairwell located on the corner of Broadway and Dyckman adjacent to Bank of America. The stairwell will be closed 24/7  for repairs occurring between 8am-5pm. 

• Repairs will consist of complete stairwell demolition and refurbishment.

• Customers will continue to have immediate, unobstructed access to three (3)  other station stairwells throughout project duration. 

This work is slated for completion by early September.  

Work on Broadway Bridge

Until Friday, June 21, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) will perform structural steel installation on the Broadway Bridge. 

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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