[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors,

It's crunch time in the state capital as we gear up for the race to pass an on-time budget by April 1st, just as the weather starts (hopefully) to warm up. This week marks a pivotal moment in state governance, with intense negotiations underway among the Governor and state legislature. As your state senator, I'm gearing up to staunchly defend a robust budget that addresses the diverse needs of all New Yorkers. Check out the Senate's Democratic Majority’s proposed budget, also known as the Senate One House Budget Resolution, by clicking here.

While there's always room for improvement, this budget shows great promise and is touted by many as possibly one of the best New York has seen in quite some time. I really look forward to wrapping it up in time to share all the details and highlights with you in my next e-update. Stay tuned!

Stay in the loop! 

Stay informed on what’s going on in Albany during the legislative session. Follow me on social media and check out the Senate website for updates. Your participation is key as we strive for a future that's fair for everyone and I look forward to keeping you updated along the way. Let's make a difference together!

Peace & blessings,

RJ

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

#CommunityFirst

A Rallying Cry for Tier 6 Reform

The atmosphere was electric as I addressed over 2500 TWU Local 100 members last week, and let me tell you, the energy was off the charts!

In a momentous union-strong event, we celebrated a significant step: the inclusion of Tier 6 reform in the Senate Democratic Majority One-House budget proposal. But this win goes beyond mere accomplishment; it's a testament to the strength of solidarity and advocacy.

The chants rang out loud and clear: Tier 6, Sucks!

I can assure you that the Senate Democratic Majority heard the union members loud and clear. Now is the time to fix Tier 6! Because parity isn't a privilege; it's a fundamental right for those who keep New York moving. We will keep pushing forward together!

The Fight for Safe, Stable Housing for All New Yorkers

I stood shoulder to shoulder with housing justice advocates, families, and colleagues, driven by our shared belief that every New Yorker, regardless of location, deserves a safe and secure home. ⁣

We must pass a strong, statewide Good Cause Eviction within our budget to ensure the many voices of New Yorkers are heard, their rights are protected, and their homes are secured. Failure to act will only turn New York into a playground for the wealthy and cause needless suffering for millions of New Yorkers.

Let's be clear: New York's promise of a safe and stable home is non-negotiable. Protecting the 2019 rent laws and passing statewide Good Cause Eviction protections isn't just about policy—it's about safeguarding the very fabric of our communities.

Advocating for Family Rights

The atmosphere in Albany surged with energy as I stood alongside advocates and colleagues rallying behind a crucial set of family civil rights bills. These measures target the reform of our state's Child Protective Services agencies, advocating for transparency, accountability, and dignity. 

From the Family Miranda Bill of Rights to Anonymous Reporting and Informed Consent, we're passionately championing change within our child protective services system. It's not enough to merely talk about progress; it's time to guarantee that every family's voice resonates and every individual's rights are honored.

Rallying for Universal After School Program

Three decades of dedication to advocating for education justice have honed my conviction: the heartbeat of progress pulses through the veins of inclusivity. ⁣That’s why I joined my colleagues and advocates in support of the Universal After School pilot program. By prioritizing equity in our budget, we're empowering communities and ensuring no child languishes in the shadows of neglect. ⁣Along with my colleagues, I look forward to making this vision a reality.⁣

Turn On The Tap for All NY Students!

I joined members of the Senate & Assembly Higher Education Committee in rallying to support investing in New York's students and families. By extending TAP to part-time students and lifting income thresholds, we're not just crunching numbers; it's about broadening access to education. This isn't just about tuition dollars; it's about empowering every New Yorker to reach for a better tomorrow, regardless of their background, ensuring opportunity for all. It's time to Turn On The Tap!

Pushing for the NY HEAT & Superfund Acts 

I stood alongside Climate Jobs Justice champions from the NY Renews coalition and my colleagues in Albany to advocate strongly for the passage of the NY HEAT Act and Climate Change Superfund Act.

New Yorkers deserve relief from the burdens imposed by Big Oil. These acts aren't just legislative solutions; they're lifelines for families grappling with the combined challenges of climate impacts and financial strain. I look forward to passing these bills, paving the way for a future where justice, affordability, and sustainability intertwine seamlessly. The moment has arrived to relieve the burden of climate inaction weighing heavily on our communities.

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.

This week, we're turning the spotlight on "The Student Wellbeing & Dignity Act," S8380, igniting a vital dialogue about the welfare of our students and fortifying the Dignity for All Students Act through this crucial legislation.

Why Does This Bill Matter?⁣

The Dignity for All Students Act has been a guiding light, promoting civility and safety in our schools. However, despite its successes, we now face a troubling surge in bullying and distressing rates of student suicides, requiring urgent action.

With alarming statistics on student suicide, it's abundantly clear that our fight against these issues is far from over. With suicide being the second leading cause of death for certain age groups, and with heightened attempts observed among Black, Brown, and LGBTQ adolescents, there's no time to delay.

What the bill does:

My Senate Bill S8380 embodies my commitment not only to address but to also preempt these tragedies by enhancing the Dignity for All Students Act with stringent reporting protocols, comprehensive suicide prevention measures, and strategies to combat cyberbullying.

With this bill, New York will equip our educators with the necessary resources and cultivate an atmosphere where respect transcends physical boundaries—reaching into the digital sphere, where much of our youth's interactions occur. S8380 recognizes our digital landscape by integrating cyberbullying prevention, digital literacy, and media education into the curriculum.

Through this legislative proposal, my goal is to ensure that our schools serve as havens of learning and compassion, both offline and online, for every student, irrespective of their background.

I eagerly anticipate the passage of S8380, heralding a new era where our students receive the respect, assistance, and dignity they rightfully deserve.

For more information on this bill, visit here.⁣

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: 

• March 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.

2024 Columbia University Career Expo

Columbia University and the Irving Medical Center are thrilled to announce the return of the annual Columbia University Career Expo, welcoming back the local community.

• Date: March 26, 2024
• Time: 9 AM - 1 PM

Attendees will gain insights into career opportunities, connect with representatives from our diverse schools and departments, participate in workshops focused on job readiness, and have the opportunity to receive professional headshots. Register here.

For further details, please contact the Columbia University Employment Information Center at 212-851-1551 or via email at communityjobs@columbia.edu.

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!

Extended Deadline for Retroactive Requests for Replacement of Skimmed SNAP and/or Cash Benefits

Eligibility for replacement of SNAP and/or Cash Assistance benefits remains the same as initially described here. However, timeframes in which a household can submit an application for replacement of stolen benefits are being extended as follows:

• Applications for SNAP benefits stolen between October 1, 2022, and August 20, 2023, and Cash Assistance benefits stolen between January 1, 2022, and August 20, 2023 (retroactive claims) can now be submitted through April 1, 2024. The original retroactive claim application deadline was extended from October 31, 2023, to December 31, 2023, and has now been extended to April 1, 2024.  

• All other applications must be submitted within 30 days from the date the household discovered the theft. 

Note: Households whose SNAP benefits were stolen between October 1, 2022, and August 20, 2023, or TA cash benefits stolen between January 1, 2022, and August 20, 2023, who do not apply before April 1, 2024, still have the option to apply for replacement as long as the application is submitted within 30 days from the date the household discovered the theft.

This updated application deadline is effective retroactively to January 1, 2024. Applications for retroactive claim reimbursement submitted on or after the previous deadline will be considered against this new deadline. Any retroactive claims denied for untimely filing during this time will be reconsidered.  

The Brandon Hendricks Scholarship for College-Bound Seniors

The fifth annual Brandon Hendricks Scholarship applications are now open! This scholarship, provided by Oyate Group, aims to honor the memory of Brandon Hendricks, a remarkable young man whose life was tragically cut short by senseless gun violence. Oyate is offering two scholarships of $20,000 each to support college-bound Bronx high school seniors over a four-year period.

To be eligible, applicants must be graduating seniors from the Bronx who are committed to pursuing higher education. The application process requires candidates to submit written statements reflecting on Brandon’s life and outlining their aspirations to contribute to the betterment of the Bronx through their education.

If you know any high school seniors who have recently been admitted to college and are planning to enroll in the fall, we encourage you to share information about this scholarship opportunity with them! They can apply by visiting this link.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Henry Hudson Bridge Improvements (Closure of Section of Inwood Hill Park Path)

A construction project aimed at critical state-of-good-repair structural enhancements and widening the lower-level pedestrian path of the Henry Hudson Bridge to 10 feet is currently underway. As a consequence, the section of the Inwood Hill Park path directly neighboring the bridge will be closed, necessitating a detour for the indicated timeframe. Please refer to the attached map for the designated detour route.

Please note that this closure is scheduled from 3/18/2024 to 5/10/2024, with the duration subject to weather conditions and approximate timing.

Work on Broadway Bridge

Until Friday, March 29, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) will be conducting wire rope cable cleaning, machinery repairs, and electrical conduit installation on the Broadway Bridge. 

To facilitate this maintenance activity:

• 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.

MTA Trains Planned Service Change 

March 24, Saturday 3:45 AM to Sunday 10 PM, the 242 St-bound 1 will bypass Marble Hill-225 St, 231 St, and 238 St stations due to station maintenance.

To access these stations, take the 1 train to Van Cortlandt Park-242 St and transfer to a Manhattan-bound 1. For travel from Marble Hill-225 St, 231 St, and 238 St, use the Bx9 bus service.

Community Visioning Workshop 

The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) will issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for development on a vacant City-owned site at 4095 9th Avenue with affordable housing and community amenities.

A Community Visioning Workshop is scheduled for March 27th, from 6-8 PM, at Harold O. Levy School 52 (650 Academy St, New York, NY 10034). The workshop will feature planned activities for community members to engage in discussions about the needs and priorities of the community, as well as stations that will provide more in-depth information about the site.

You can RSVP here to the workshop and spread the word about this event. If you have any questions, email Inwood9thRFP@hpd.nyc.gov. For more details about the project, visit the website.

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. Spring classes will convene once a week from March to June, 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