[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors, 

Since the inception of the pandemic, our journey has been marked by significant progress. We've achieved remarkable milestones in understanding, treating, and vaccinating against COVID-19. Yet, it's crucial to recognize that the threat of the virus still lingers. Despite our advancements, its unpredictable nature and potential mutations remind us that caution is paramount. Vigilance in maintaining public health measures and promoting vaccination remains essential to navigate this evolving landscape and mitigate the ongoing impact of COVID-19.

Medical professionals have expressed growing concerns regarding a potential resurgence of COVID-19 in New York City. They are also providing valuable insights into preventive measures. While the CDC no longer monitors overall COVID-19 cases, it continues to track individuals testing positive for the virus during hospital admissions. Alarming trends are evident in these numbers, indicating an increase.

Amidst the escalating COVID-19 cases in our state, I implore fellow New Yorkers to remember that COVID-19 is treatable. The COVID tests are not only user-friendly but also highly accurate. At-home tests are readily available at local pharmacies. 

In the event of a positive test, initiating treatment promptly after symptom onset is crucial for optimal effectiveness. Prescription COVID-19 medications can be easily obtained through doctors, pharmacies, and healthcare clinics. Antiviral drugs like Paxlovid exhibit their highest efficacy when administered within five days of symptom onset. For those without a regular healthcare provider, treatment locations can be found here.

Individuals who receive a positive test result should refrain from contact with others, which entails staying home from work, school, and social engagements. The cornerstone of averting severe illness and curtailing the transmission of COVID-19 during the last days of summer and upcoming fall months lies in diligently adopting preventive measures:

• Get vaccinated and boosted when eligible. 
  
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating.
  
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard it in a closed container.
  
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects.
  
• And consider wearing a mask to reduce your chance of exposure.

Individuals who have not yet been vaccinated or are behind on booster doses can find COVID-19 vaccine sites here.

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. I hope you all have a chance to spend some quality time with your loved ones, and please stay safe!

Peace & blessings, 

RJ

#CommunityFirst

2023 Manhattan Power 100

I am deeply honored to have been selected as a member of City and State NY Manhattan Power 100. Congratulations to all my esteemed colleagues also mentioned in this distinguished list.

I look forward to continuing to serve the constituents of District 31 and to continue delivering meaningful results.

A Run to Remember: Honoring a Dear Friend

In a profoundly heartfelt tribute, I laced up my shoes and hit the streets of Harlem to participate in the Percy Sutton 5K Run. As I ran, cherished memories of my late friend Bill Perkins accompanied me, creating a poignant and privileged experience. 

Our shared moments in the office and on the track amplified the significance of this run, serving as a reverent homage to a friendship that remains a constant source of inspiration.

Celebrating Dominican Culture

It was an honor to participate in the 41st annual National Dominican Day Parade alongside the lively Dominican Community. The atmosphere was charged with incredible energy, vibrant cultural expressions, and an overwhelming sense of pride.

2024 People's Budget Book

While initiating the composition of the 2024 People's Budget, and in adherence to our public involvement strategy, the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus (BPHAC)  is actively seeking contributions from community-based organizations. We are also welcoming photographs and testimonies from New Yorkers impacted by these policies. Kindly be aware that all individuals featured in pictures must complete a photo authorization form to be considered for inclusion in the final document.

Please use this form to contribute input for the 2024 People’s Budget. Should you have any questions or any supporting documents, please email bphacaucus@nyassembly.gov. The deadline for submissions is Friday, September 1, 2023. 

Capital Allocation Requests

My office is considering capital allocation requests for community-based organizations, government-owned entities, schools, and other non-profit entities. Capital grants for this year (FY2023-2024) are for physical improvements (construction, renovation, purchasing of physical equipment, etc.) with a useful life of at least 10 years.  

Capital projects include but are not limited to investment in facilities that support arts, cultural, athletic, housing, childcare, educational, parks and recreational, transportation, port development, workforce training, employment development, tourism, community development, climate change mitigation, resiliency, environmental sustainability, and other civic activities.  Capital grants may also be used to support assets that have a useful life of less than 10 years if it is dedicated to health and safety projects.

Capital grants may not be used for repairs and maintenance; administrative costs; software not pre-installed on equipment; cloud-based systems or programs; training more than the "trainer"; feasibility studies; extended warranties; or painting, carpeting, and landscaping unless it is within the finishing phase of construction or reconstruction.

Capital projects must be at least $50,000.

If your organization would like to be considered for a capital allocation, please send a letter on your organization's letterhead that includes:

• The amount of funds you are requesting;
  
• A description of the project, including what the funds will be used for;
  
• Documentation of project cost estimates; and
  
• The work your organization provides benefits the community.

Please send your capital request to jackson@nysenate.gov with "FY2023-2024 Capital Request Submission" in your email's subject line.

MTA Recruitment Fair

The MTA will host a Recruitment Fair on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Terminal. MTA recruiters and subject matter experts will be available from 12 pm to 6:30 pm. This event presents an excellent opportunity for job seekers to explore available positions and learn more about potential opportunities.

Replacement Benefit Claim Process for Cash & SNAP EBT Skimming Victims

Beginning Monday, August 21, 2023, NYC households can submit claims to the NYC Department of Social Services/Human Resources Administration. These claims are intended to request the replacement of electronically stolen SNAP and/or Cash Assistance benefits.

This action follows the enactment of the Federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, which grants states the authority to utilize SNAP funds for issuing replacement benefits to households that have experienced electronic benefit theft related to scams. This applies to incidents occurring on or after October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2024. Correspondingly, the NYS Legislature has passed a law allowing the issuance of replacement benefits to households subjected to scam-related electronic benefit theft of Cash Assistance benefits from January 1, 2022, onward. Clients seeking replacement benefits are not obliged to maintain an active SNAP or Cash Assistance case. Those with closed or rejected cases should file for replacement benefits using their previous case number rather than initiating a new SNAP or Cash Assistance application.

• In the event that a client's SNAP or Cash benefits are stolen, they are required to follow these steps to request replacement benefits:

Report their EBT card as stolen immediately after realizing the theft: Prior to submitting a claim for replacement benefits, clients are required to take the following steps to ensure their benefits are protected: change their account PIN, report their EBT card stolen, and request a new card by visiting www.connectebt.com or calling EBT Customer Service at 888-328-6399.

• Clients can submit a claim for replacement SNAP and/or CA benefits using any of the following methods:

Online at nyc.gov/hra: Submitting a claim online is the fastest and easiest way to file! Filing a claim online may take as little as 10 minutes if the fraud has already been reported and the client has reviewed & identified the suspected fraudulent transactions. Submitting an online claim is strongly recommended by DSS/HRA.

By mail: Clients can print a paper claim form from nyc.gov/hra, or they can obtain a paper claim form by calling DSS One Number (718-557-1399) and requesting a form be mailed to them. Paper claim forms are also available in the local BAC or SNAP Center. Completed paper applications can be mailed to: Department of Social Services, PO BOX 02-9121, Brooklyn GPO, Brooklyn, NY 11202.

In-Person: Clients can submit a claim via paper form or on PC Banks in any Benefits Access, SNAP, or HASA Center. Visit www.nyc.gov to find a Center near you.

Once a claim is submitted, the client should allow up to 30 calendar days to receive a decision notice in the mail. Clients should anticipate receiving their replacement benefits on their newest and most recently used EBT card at or around the time they receive their notice of determination. 

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."

Resources & Student Debt Counseling

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

If you have student loans, we've got some great news for you. 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. These resources are designed to guide individuals through the complexities of student debt and help them prepare as the payment pause period comes to an end.

The Hero’s Guide to Strategic Student Loan Repayment

The Hero’s Guide to Strategic Student Loan Repayment is a comprehensive toolkit packed with useful resources, including:

• A checklist for repayment
• Effective strategies for tackling student debt
• Clear explanations and comparisons of available repayment plans
• Information about forgiveness programs and the One-Time Payment Count Adjustments
• Solutions for managing defaulted loans
• Guidance for those dealing with Parent Plus loans and recent graduates entering repayment for the first time

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. 

Free Summer Meals

The New York City Public Schools will offer FREE breakfast and lunch meals to children 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.

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

ERAP Update

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

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

Planet Fitness Invites High Schoolers to Work Out Free All Summer

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

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

ARC Shuttle information

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

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

NY DEP Internship Program

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

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

Apply now and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity!

Cannabis Corner

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

Housing Programs for Low-Income Families

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

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

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

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

Half-priced MetroCard's for Eligible New Yorkers

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

Your Path to Contracting with the City

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

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

Student Loan Payment Pause Extended

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

You can also visit here for more information.

Resources for Veterans

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

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

NMIC's Disability Assistance Program

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

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

Supplemental Food Program for Seniors

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

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

Affordable Connectivity Program

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

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

Enroll today by visiting here.

Civil Service Exams

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

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

Free Cancer Screening for the Uninsured 

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

CaringKind Programs and Services

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

Gun Violence Prevention Initiative  

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

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

Roberto Clemente State Park's 50th Anniversary

I cordially invite you to join District 31 on Saturday, August 19th,  to celebrate the 50th anniversary of NYC's original state park: Roberto Clemente State Park. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day filled with thrilling events and activities, taking place from 10 am to 7 pm. Don't miss out on sharing this unforgettable day with the community.

Inwood Jazz Festival

Come together with your neighbors and friends to take part in the Inwood Jazz Festival on August 19th from 1:30 pm to 9 pm, hosted at Inwood Hill Park. Immerse yourself in a day brimming with soulful melodies and toe-tapping rhythms; all offered absolutely FREE of charge.

For more information, visit their website through this link.

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.

LINC Events

Join LINC and The Inwood NYPL at the Ring Garden for an exhilarating session of read-aloud, singing, and dancing. Every registered family will also receive a FREE BOOK. For more details, please contact Rocio Apolonio at rapolonio@lincnyc.org. Dates and times are provided on the flyers posted below.

Additionally, you're invited to join LINC for the Travel Through The Books Together event at J. Hood Wright Park in Washington Heights. For further information, you can reach out to Ycapellan@lincnyc.org or Acanete@lincnyc.org, or refer to the flyers below for specific dates and times.

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.

GrowNYC Greenmarket

GrowNYC has recently opened green markets in District 31, providing an excellent opportunity for community members to access the freshest and most nutritious locally-grown food in the region. 

The Fort Washington Greenmarket, the nearby 175th St Greenmarket, and the Morris Heights Farmstand are now available to serve the community. To learn more about the nutrition benefit programs and incentives accepted by GrowNYC, please click 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