[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors,

This year, we commemorate the 98th anniversary of a significant milestone in American history - the inception of Negro History Week, the precursor to Black History Month. Initiated in February 1926 by the esteemed scholar and educator Carter G. Woodson, this week was a pioneering effort to promote the study of African American history in U.S. public schools. Woodson firmly believed in the necessity of safeguarding and celebrating Black history.

This month, we are presented with a valuable opportunity to emphasize the significance of comprehensive civics and history education. People and groups in influential positions are using their platform to diminish the importance of Black History. Their misguided and harmful efforts make it all the more imperative to elevate this intrinsic component of American history. We must actively encourage continuous learning about the profound history and invaluable contributions made by Black Americans, and other groups left out of our history books, throughout the year.

The theme for this year's Black History Month, selected by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), centers around "African Americans and the Arts." The influence of African Americans in the realm of arts is profound and multifaceted, significantly shaping various aspects of American culture and beyond. Drawing inspiration from ancient rites of passage and the shared aspirations for liberty among my ancestors, Black artists have seamlessly blended the rhythmic cadence of creative expressions with the pulsating beats of progress since the inception of this nation. From the Harlem Renaissance, which heralded the emergence of a distinct African American identity, to the creation of hip-hop, and into the 21st century, this artistic journey has been a continuous one. As Paul Robeson eloquently stated, "Artists are the gatekeepers of truth. We are civilization's radical voice." Black art and creativity, at their core, hold immense importance as they enable us to convey our struggles, triumphs, and unique gifts, ultimately breathing life into the African American story in America.

Black narratives and creativity deserve our attention and celebration year-round, not just in February. The profound impact and distinctiveness of Black stories call for ongoing recognition throughout the year. With this in mind, I continuously urge everyone to immerse themselves in our shared history. It's crucial for understanding and preventing the recurrence of the nation's darker chapters, helping us build a brighter, more inclusive future. Aligned with this year's theme for Black History Month, I am excited to present a diverse and thoughtfully curated collection of recommendations. This assortment, ranging from films to books, represents a collaborative effort between myself and my dedicated team, ensuring a rich and varied exploration of Black excellence.

Films

• “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."

• Cord Jefferson's directorial debut, "American Fiction," challenges our culture's obsession with stereotypes. Jeffrey Wright stars as Monk, a frustrated novelist tired of the establishment profiting from offensive tropes in "Black" entertainment. To make his point, Monk uses a pen name to write an outlandish "Black" book, propelling him into the hypocrisy he disdains.

Embark on a journey through these destinations & delve into the vibrant & diverse world of Black culture & arts:

• The Jazz Museum: Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of jazz.

• Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: a renowned institution committed to researching, preserving, and showcasing African American, African Diaspora, & African experiences.

• Louis Armstrong House Museum: Step into the life and legacy of a jazz legend.

• The Hip Hop Museum: Experience the evolution of hip-hop.

• National Black Theatre: A transformative theater dedicated to enhancing African American cultural identity through authentic, multifaceted stories of the Black experience.

• The Apollo Theater: Witness the iconic stage that launched a thousand stars.

Books

• James Baldwin's 1963 non-fiction masterpiece, “The Fire Next Time,” gave a passionate voice to the emerging civil rights movement. This book masterfully blends a vivid recount of Baldwin's own experiences growing up in Harlem with a profound critique of the pervasive racial injustices of the era. It stands as a deeply personal yet confrontational testament, offering a unique perspective on the societal challenges of the time.

• “The Black Woman: An Anthology” by Toni Cade Bambara is a collection of poems, short stories, essays, speeches, and round-table discussions by Black women, addressing their roles and circumstances in contemporary American society. This anthology stands out for its transcendent quality, going beyond mere emotional appeal to provide impactful insights that deeply resonate with the reader.

• “This Child’s Gonna Live” by Sarah Wright is a compelling depiction of human endurance in the face of poverty, racism, and despair. Set in a 1930s fishing village on Maryland's Eastern Shore, the central character, Mariah Upshur, emerges as a hardworking, sensual, and resilient woman filled with hope and determination, even in a society that actively seeks to suppress her.

Here are some great choices for your children:

• "When I Close My Eyes" by Ty Allen Jackson offers a captivating journey, sure to engage your young one during story time. This book inspires children to delve into the boundless realm of their imagination!

• Tami Charles' "All Because You Matter" artfully captures a mother's poetic journey of empowering her son. Through a blend of historical anecdotes and deeply personal narratives, she assures him of his significance and belonging in a world that often makes him feel alienated. This work stands as a heartfelt ode to Black and brown children globally, serving as a powerful reminder of their enduring importance and eternal legacy.

The Legislative Session Is Warming Up!

On a final note, Team Jackson is working hard in Albany to make good trouble in the state's capitol. As the budget discussions gain momentum, I am committed to achieving a state budget that effectively addresses the inequities affecting our communities. Legislation, hearings, and negotiations are going to be moving at a fast pace. Stay updated on legislative developments by following my social media. Visit my senate website for budget hearing details.

Peace & blessings,

RJ

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

#CommunityFirst

Bridging the Digital Divide: The Urgent Need to Extend NY's Affordable Connectivity Program

Funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is set to expire in April 2024. This program offers discounts on internet services, providing eligible low-income households with up to $30 per month and up to $75 per month for qualifying households on Tribal lands.

The FCC has requested an additional $6 billion to continue the program through the end of 2024. If the program is allowed to expire, the impact will be felt by the nearly 1.7 million households who are enrolled throughout New York State, particularly among students who rely on internet connectivity for educational purposes.

You can read a letter I authored to Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Members of the New York Congressional Delegation, urging them to swiftly secure the additional $6 billion needed to extend the Affordable Connectivity Program through the end of 2024 by visiting this link.

A Dive into the Executive's Education Budget: What Does it Mean?

Last week, I had the pleasure of joining forces with the Alliance for Quality Education (AQE) to host a Legislative Breakfast for my senate and assembly colleagues. 

In this engaging session, we delved deep into AQE's key concerns, scrutinizing the gap between what our communities require and the proposed budget. We were joined and heard from Commissioner Betty Rosa from the NYS Education Department, as well as CFO Christina Coughlin.

The focus and consensus were clear, we must safeguard school funding for our schools, support critical programs providing early childhood and afterschool care, and students and young adults with disabilities.

Moreover, we shed light on the necessity of fairly compensating childcare educators and explored revenue-raisers like my Progressive Tax Bill to secure essential services for a vast majority of New Yorkers.

State Budget Watch: Taking A Stand On Education

Last Thursday, as part of the New York State Legislature's critical joint budget hearing on elementary and secondary education, I took a leading role in actively challenging and engaging with various officials, unions, associations, and groups from NYS, NYC, and beyond.

Spearheading the discourse, my colleagues and I rigorously pressed these representatives on several pivotal topics, including the Governor's education budget, NYC's mayoral control, initiatives for class size reduction, the expansion of charter schools, the advancement of early childhood programs, the support for schools catering to students with special needs, and the overarching budget challenges.

Our targeted inquiries and determined pursuit of clarity and accountability underscored our commitment to reshaping the educational landscape for the better.

Steering Progress at the Workforce Hearing

Last week, at the pivotal New York State Legislature Workforce Hearing, I led with unwavering resolve as Chair of Civil Service & Pensions, championing the cause to fortify our state's public workforce.

This includes collaborating with labor unions to pass Tier 6 reforms, addressing understaffing, and enhancing benefits for essential roles like Teachers, Nurses, Sanitation Workers, Deputy Sheriffs, Medics, EMTs, and more. 

My leadership is rooted not only in my deep commitment to addressing the immediate challenges of the public workforce but also in ensuring a rewarding and dignified retirement for all public servants in New York.

Advocating for a Brighter Bronx

I had the pleasure of hosting advocates from the Bronxwide Plan coalition, a group of community, faith, and labor organizations from across the Bronx, at my Albany office.

They came to discuss their Bronx-Wide Plan, which outlines a vision for our Bronx centered on economic democracy, shared ownership, dignified wages for all workers, environmental healing, and investments in healthcare, education, and housing as fundamental rights.

I wholeheartedly support their efforts and look forward to collaborating to achieve these goals for a better future in the Bronx.

Engaging Future Healthcare Leaders

I was please to host the medical students from Columbia University and have the opportunity to discuss critical legislative bills that will hopefully get passed this session. As always, the medical students from Columbia University are welcome to my office when they visit the state capital.

Tenant Housing Clinics with Met Council on Housing & CUNY

If you are having problems with your landlord, need repairs, or have high rents, I invite you to join the Tenant Rights Clinic Series with Met Council on Housing!

This collaborative effort with Met Council, Cuny in The Heights, and my office is designed to empower you.

Clinics will be held at CUNY in the Heights (one door over from my district office building) on the following days: 

• February 13th & 27th
  
• March 11th & 25th
  
• April 8th & 22nd

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. - arrive by 6 p.m. This is a great opportunity for tenants to receive free, one-on-one advice about their rights and how to protect them from experienced tenant advocates.

Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Grant

The state's Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grant program is now officially live. Nonprofit, community-based organizations are invited to apply for funding through this program, aimed at strengthening the safety and security of organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission. Eligible organizations can apply for grants of up to $200,000 to enhance their physical security and cybersecurity.

For inquiries regarding the request for applications, please submit them to dcjsfunding@dcjs.ny.gov by Wednesday, February 28, 2024. Responses to these inquiries will be posted on the DCJS website no later than Friday, March 22, 2024.

The application deadline, along with vulnerability self-assessments, is set for noon on Friday, May 17, 2024. To access more information, please visit the DCJS website.

Apply Now for NYC's Youth Employment Program!

The Summer Youth Employment Program application is open! This summer, young New Yorkers, ages 14 to 24, can get six weeks of paid work experience in a variety of relevant fields. The application closes on March 1, so make sure to apply before then.

Job Opening for Teachers at the Department of Labor (DOL)

The Summer Teacher Ambassador Program is a paid, intensive summer training program designed to prepare teachers, certified work-based learning (WBL) coordinators, school counselors, and school librarians to develop and deliver career-readiness strategies for students in grades six through twelve throughout New York State. 

The New York State Department of Labor (DOL) is currently seeking candidates for Project Coordinators to participate in a four-week Career Development Ambassador Program scheduled for July 8, 2024, through August 2, 2024. During this program, participants will collaborate with the DOL's Employment Services Staff with the goal of equipping educators with workforce development knowledge that can be applied in schools to support students in exploring potential career pathways. To apply 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!

3-K & Pre-K Applications 

The 3-K and Pre-K applications are now open for fall 2024! 

If you live in New York City and have a child born in 2021 for 3-K or 2020 for pre-K, you can apply any time by March 1, 2024. Admissions are not first come, first served: there is no advantage to applying early, and all applications received by the deadline are treated the same.  

You can apply in one of three ways:   

• Online with MySchools.nyc and Create your account today. Watch these video tutorials to learn how to create your MySchools account and how to apply.    

• By phone at 718-935-2009. Call Monday-Friday between 8 am and 6 pm.    

• Contact a Family Welcome Center. Learn how at schools.nyc.gov/FWC.    

*Applications must be submitted by March 1, 2024 for consideration.*

NYC free tax prep program

File Your Taxes with NYC Free Tax Prep!

If you earned $85,000 or less in 2023, file for FREE with an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer.  For more information about all services and eligibility, visit nyc.gov/taxprep or call 311 and ask for "tax preparation. The deadline to file a tax return for your 2023 taxes is April 15, 2024.

Community Leaders Grant

Are you a passionate community leader? CitizensNYC is here to support your vision! 

Citizens Committee for New York City is offering micro-grants of up to $3,000 to resident-led groups for neighborhood improvement projects. Strengthen local leadership, forge community partnerships, and ignite positive change. Grassroots leaders, it's your time to shine! Boost civic engagement, neighborhood wealth, and community health.

Apply for the Community Leaders Grant by March 1, 2024, and make a real impact. Your project can make a real impact. Learn more here!

The Kingsbridge Heights Community Center is hiring!

The Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) is currently accepting applications for various positions. As a vital cornerstone of New York City, the center was established in 1974 by dedicated community organizers, Mary McLoughlin, Patricia Burns, and Janet Athanasidy. Committed to serving all age groups, the Kingsbridge Heights Community Center is deeply engaged with both the United Neighborhood Houses of New York City and the United Neighborhood Centers of America.

To learn more about the available opportunities, kindly click here.

Snow Removal Employment

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is currently hiring temporary Emergency Snow Shovelers for snow and ice removal at various City locations, including bus stops, crosswalks, and fire hydrants.

For details and to register for an appointment, visit this link.

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.

Bronx Community Board 7 is Hiring!

Bronx Community Board No. 7 is a New York City agency tasked with recognizing the needs of our community and championing those needs within the city government. As one of the 59 independent community boards, it provides counsel on matters such as land use, the city budget, and municipal service distribution, all within specific geographic regions. Bronx Community Board No. 7 jurisdiction covers the neighborhoods of University Heights, Kingsbridge Heights, Bedford Park, Fordham, Jerome Park, Mosholu, and Norwood in the Bronx.

Visit this link to apply.

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.

Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of #4 free at-home tests from USPS.com again.

Here's what you need to know about your order:

• Limit of one order per residential address
• One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests (COVIDTests.gov has more details about at-home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates)

 Visit here to place your free order.

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."

New 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.

Resources & Student Debt Counseling

Exciting News for Student Loan Holders: EDCAP's Resources Can Help You!

If you have student loans, EDCAP, a program operated by the Community Service Society of New York (CSS) and funded by the state legislature, has just released a set of invaluable resources. They're designed to navigate student debt complexities and prepare for the payment pause period's end. 

The Hero’s Guide to Strategic Student Loan Repayment

Check out The Hero’s Guide to Strategic Student Loan Repayment is a comprehensive toolkit packed with useful resources.

One-On-One Counseling Services

EDCAP is offering free, one-on-one student debt counseling with a team of student loan experts. They can help borrowers fully assess their loan situation, develop a strategic plan, explore potential relief options, and resolve issues with loan servicers, all in a confidential setting. To schedule a free, confidential session with an EDCAP expert, interested individuals can call our Helpline at 888-614-5004 or email edcap@cssny.org.

All services are free. Learn more at edcapny.org.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to take control of your student debt and secure your financial future. Contact them today and let EDCAP assist you on your journey to financial freedom. 

ERAP

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).

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

The licensing application is currently closed. The office has reopened the Processor Type 3 Brand license applications now.

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.

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.

Jazz Power Initiative - Open Audition for Jazz Power Musical 2024! 

Join the Jazz Power Youth family and get ready to sing, act, and be transformed by jazz!

Jazz Power Initiative is recruiting aspiring singers, actors, and art enthusiasts aged 10 to 18 for Jazz Power Musical 2024, a 12-week immersive jazz singing, theater, and movement program. The first step is the Open Audition on Thursday, February 8th, at Holy Trinity Church in Inwood, starting at 4:30 pm. Visit this link for more details. The audition and participation in Jazz Power Musical are entirely free.

Bronx Green-Up Grow More Vegetables Certificate Series

As the community gardening outreach program of The New York Botanical Garden, Bronx Green-Up provides horticulture education, training, and technical assistance to Bronx residents, community gardeners, urban farmers, local schools, and community organizations. 

Their Grow More Vegetables Certificate Series is an edible gardening course designed to equip community gardeners, teachers, and city residents with the best organic techniques for growing vegetables safely and effectively, particularly in an urban setting. To become certified, participants must attend 6 virtual classes, complete 8 hours of hands-on practice, and complete a final project. Priority will be given to Bronx community gardeners, but others are welcome if space allows. 

The deadline to apply is Friday, February 16, 2024.

• Dates: March 6, 13, 20, 27, & April 3 and 17 from 6–8 p.m.

• Location: Virtual

• Contact: Email bronxgreenup@nybg.org for the registration link.

A Conference on Parkland in the Bronx — 30 Years Later

The Bronx Coalition of Parks and Green Spaces (BCPGS) is set to host "Bronx Speak Up: A Conference on Parkland in the Bronx — 30 Years Later." This event will include a panel discussion on the role of green spaces in combating climate change, as well as workshops and presentations suitable for all age groups. Join BCPGS on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM at the Lehman College Faculty Dining Room, located in the Music Building.

BCPGS is a grassroots collaboration of Bronx parks and open space groups that advocates on a borough-wide level, convenes an annual Bronx Parks Speak Up, and promotes member events and initiatives.

To RSVP, please click on this link. For additional information, visit www.bronxspeakup.org or follow @bxspeakup on social media.

Linc Events

Join LINC this month for some exciting events in the district! For further information, please reach out to Ycapellan@lincnyc.org or Acanete@lincnyc.org, or refer to the flyers below for specific dates and times.

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.

Work on Broadway Bridge

From Monday, February 5th, to Friday, February 16th, NYCDOT will be conducting wire rope cable cleaning on the Broadway Bridge. 

This will necessitate lane closures in both directions, following the schedule provided below:

• A single-lane closure will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• A double lane closure will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Additionally, alternating sidewalk closures will be implemented.

It's important to note that throughout the duration of this work, at least one lane of traffic will remain accessible at all times, and at least one sidewalk will remain open for pedestrian use. Please be aware that the schedule for this maintenance is subject to change based on weather conditions, and rescheduling may be necessary if required.

For further details and specific information, please consult the attached notices.

Uptown Stories Winter Workshops 

The Uptown Stories winter workshops began!

Uptown Stories empowers young writers aged 8 to 18 with the tools they need to express their unique narratives. Winter classes will run throughout January and February for four weeks, offering students a space to explore the art 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.

Washington Bridge Safety Improvements

The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) will enhance safety along the Washington Bridge at West 181st Street in Manhattan. The project includes a dedicated eastbound bus lane towards the Bronx, a two-way protected bike lane, and changes to signal timing and signage at the West 181st Street and Amsterdam Avenue intersection. 

For details please refer to the attached flyer for more details.

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