[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).

Dear Neighbors,

This November, New Yorkers face a pivotal decision. Proposal 1, formerly known as the New York Equal Rights Amendment, will be on the ballot this general election.

Across the nation, there's a surge in legislation that curtails fundamental rights, including abortion and personal freedoms. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, twenty-one states have either restricted or outright banned abortion care. And it doesn’t stop there—reproductive rights like birth control, IVF, and transgender rights are all under attack, with hundreds of bills introduced and many passed across the U.S. this year alone.

Why New Yorkers Should Vote "Yes" on Proposal 1

In New York, we might feel insulated from these threats, but dangerous gaps in our state constitution still expose us to potential overreach. While robust anti-discrimination laws currently protect us, they are not impervious to change—shifts in the political landscape have repeatedly shown that laws alone are insufficient. Enshrining these rights in the state constitution fortifies them against such volatility.

For much of the past 58 years, pro-choice leaders have not held a majority in both chambers of our State legislature. It wasn't until 2019 that New York decriminalized abortion, categorizing it under health law instead of homicide.

Passing Prop 1 is crucial. It not only secures reproductive rights, including abortion, as inalienable but also patches constitutional loopholes to ensure comprehensive anti-discrimination protections for every New Yorker, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, pregnancy, disability, or sexual orientation. Prop 1 safeguards us from the caprices of out-of-touch legislators, guaranteeing that no New Yorker—especially the most vulnerable—is disadvantaged by discriminatory government actions. 

By enshrining these protections in the state constitution, we can ensure that no political shift can undermine our rights. This November, let’s vote to keep New York a leader in equality and freedom.

Friendly Reminder New Yorkers! Deadline for Voting Registration 

Mark your calendars! The last day to register in person or by mail is rapidly approaching: October 26, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard in the November 5 State and Federal General Election.

Plus, voting early by mail is now easier than ever! Any registered voter can apply—just visit www.vote.nyc to learn more.

Key Dates:

• Last Day to Register: October 26, 2024
• Election Day: November 5, 2024

Let’s ensure our community is ready and registered to vote.

Stay in the loop! 

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

Peace & blessings,

RJ

#CommunityFirst

Empowering Voices: Building Tenant Unity

This past week, I had the opportunity to meet with tenants from the 1312-1322 Riverside Drive buildings, alongside Pa'lante Harlem, to listen to their concerns and inform them of their rights. Together, we’re taking the first steps toward organizing a tenant association to advocate for their needs and address long-standing issues. Community power is built through unity!

A Toast to Fort Tryon Park

I was thrilled to sponsor and attend "A Toast to Fort Tryon Park," a fundraiser for the Fort Tryon Park Trust. Held in the scenic Heather Garden and Bonnefont, the event featured live music and brought together friends to support this triple-landmarked, historic park, which serves as a beacon of wellness for individuals, families, and the broader community.

A special congratulations to the honorees—Dr. Colleen Koch, Retired Detective Haydee Pabey, and Nancy Bruning—whose contributions continue to uplift this historic park as a haven for wellness and connection.

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 take place at CUNY in the Heights, conveniently located just next door to my district office, on the following dates for the remainder of this year:

• October 8th & 22nd
• November 12th & 26th
• December 10th

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

Launch Your Career Path!

State Senator Robert Jackson and the Department of Labor are here to assist you in your career journey!

Ready to get started? Explore personalized support through in-person and virtual Career Centers, where you can connect with resources, attend recruitment events, and meet potential employers. Take the first step toward your future today—sign up for the Virtual Career Center or visit your local center to access the tools you need to succeed!

Order Your Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order another set of four free rapid antigen COVID-19 tests HERE.

What You Need to Know:

• Each order contains four individual tests. For more details on at-home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates, visit COVIDTests.gov.

• Shipping is free.

SNAP Benefit Skimming Replacement Deadline Extension

Please be advised that the federal authority allowing the replacement of electronically stolen SNAP benefits has been extended to December 20, 2024. The Department of Social Services will continue to accept claims for stolen SNAP benefits if the theft occurred on or before December 20, 2024, and the claim is filed within 30 days of discovering the theft. This extension does not affect claims for electronically stolen Cash Assistance benefits.

For more information and resources regarding Benefit Replacement, please visit their webpage.

MTA Career Opportunities

The MTA has vacancies in the following job titles. These positions are open to the public. If you are interested, click on the links below to view the job descriptions and qualification requirements and for instructions on how to submit an application.

• Mechanical Maintainer - Group C (Facility/Building Maintainer): See Job Description Here
• Power Cable Maintainer (High-Voltage Electrical Line Repairer): See Job Description Here
• Revenue Equipment Maintainer: See Job Description Here

The MTA is also hiring for many more positions in the skilled trades. Click on this link to see the job titles and to submit an application.

Shape the future of NYC's age-friendly initiatives!

The NYC Department for the Aging (NYC Aging) is conducting a Service Needs Assessment survey to better serve the growing community of older adults, 60+. Whether you currently use their services or may in the future, your voice matters. Share your feedback to shape programs and advocacy efforts. Plus, complete the survey for a chance to win a $50 gift card!

Scan the QR code below or visit this link to participate online.

Fast-track your MWBE certification with "Respuesta Rápida"! 

Now through 10/31/24, the ESD's Division of Minority & Women's Business Development is offering a streamlined process for MWBEs to receive their certification determination in as little as 90 days. Partner with local resources like the Entrepreneurial Assistance Center (EAC), Small Business Development Center (SBDC), or Empire APEX Accelerator to get started. 

Don’t miss out on this special opportunity! Call 212-803-2414 or visit this link for more details.

Parks Opportunity Program

Looking for a job? Develop your skills with NYC Parks! 

The Parks Opportunity Program (POP) allows you to participate in job training while working to keep our city’s parks, playgrounds, and other facilities clean and green. The program offers a six-month maintenance position with NYC Parks earning $18.54 per hour and more!

Click here to see full job details and here to apply!

WHIN Food Council Scholarship Application is Open!

Cultivate your future with the WHIN Food Council Scholarship!

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

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

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

2024 Fellowship on Immigrant Integration 

Calling all SUNY & CUNY Grad Students!

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

Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference!

Free Civics Classes For Green Card Holders

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

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

Report Issues in Vacant Apartments by Calling 311!

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

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

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

Social Security Video Connect

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

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

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

Expanded Essential Plan Coverage

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

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

PA'LANTE Tenants Resources Zoom Webinars

Join PA'LANTE's Zoom webinars this month! 

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

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 for the month.

Free Online Therapy for NYC Teens

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

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

To access their services, please visit their website here.

BronxWorks is Hiring

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

To apply, please visit here.

Free Coursera Courses

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

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

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

The Tenant Helpline

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

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

State Efforts to Connect Asylum Seekers and Migrants to Jobs

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

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

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

Cannabis Corner

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

To find the legal dispensaries near you visit this link.

Housing Programs for Low-Income Families

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

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

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

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

Half-priced MetroCard's for Eligible New Yorkers

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

Resources for Veterans

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

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

NMIC's Disability Assistance Program

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

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

Supplemental Food Program for Seniors

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

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

Civil Service Exams

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

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

Free Cancer Screening for the Uninsured 

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

CaringKind Programs and Services

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

Gun Violence Prevention Initiative  

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

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

Work on Broadway Bridge

From Monday, October 7th, to Friday, October 18th, NYCDOT will perform machinery repairs and deck repairs on the Broadway Bridge.

During this period:

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

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

Píntame Angelitos:Art-Making Workshop

Join the Hispanic Society on Saturday, October 5th, from 3 to 5 PM at the Upper Terrace of the Hispanic Society Museum & Library (3741 Broadway, NY, NY 10032) for an engaging art-making workshop with Rose Deler, the creator of the installation "Píntame Angelitos Negros."

Participants will have the opportunity to paint a small clay angel to take home. Materials are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are highly encouraged—please visit this link or scan the QR code below to reserve your spot.

Shine the Light 

On October 9th, join the 8th annual Shine the Light Event, presented by the Washington Heights/Inwood Coalition Against Interpersonal & Domestic Violence. The gathering starts at 175th Street & Broadway at 5 p.m., with the march starting at 5:30 p.m. The event concludes at Mitchell Square on 167th Street and Broadway with a short ceremony. 

Let's unite to shine a light on the issue of domestic violence and stand with survivors. For additional information, please check the flyer below.

Join the Dyckman 5K Run/Walk!

On October 19, 2024, join the community as the Dyckman Run Club marks its fifth anniversary! The Dyckman 5K Run/Walk champions health, wellness, and unity with all proceeds supporting their free community programs.

• Time: 8 AM Meet-Up | 9 AM Start (Rain or Shine)
• Location: Quisqueya Plaza, 247 Dyckman St., New York, NY 10034

Get ready to run or walk the Dyckman Way!

Biketober 

The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) is celebrating cycling this October with Biketober events in our district. Join them for Bike the Block programming, helmet fittings, bike light giveaways, group rides, and outreach for delivery cyclists as part of this annual celebration.

Here are the event details in District 31:

• 10/22: Bike light giveaways and resources at Highbridge (University Avenue), Bronx, from 4 pm to 7 pm.

• 10/26: Helmet fitting and "Bike the Block" along Audubon Avenue, from 184th Street to 188th Street, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For more information, visit nyc.gov/biketober.

Reimagine the Cross Bronx Workshops!

Help shape the future of the Cross Bronx Expressway! Join the Concept Refinement Workshop to explore project updates, share your input, and ensure community voices are heard. Spanish, Bengali, and ASL interpretations will be available, and families are encouraged to attend. Register here!

CLOTH Needs Volunteers!

Are you interested in volunteering with the Community League of the Heights? Their pantry distribution is every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 am - 1 pm. And if you are interested in other volunteer opportunities let us know. To sign up click here to complete this simple volunteer registration form.

Fort Fridge Volunteer Sign-up

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

Cabrini Immigrant Services Food Pantry

The Cabrini Immigrant Services Food Pantry operates Saturdays from 7:30 - 9 AM year-round at Church of the Good Shepherd (630 Isham Street, New York, NY 10034). They serve hundreds of families each month, distributing bags of food that include nutritionally diverse and culturally appropriate selections. 

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

Riverside Park Conservancy - Volunteer Opportunity 

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

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

Volunteer at West Side Campaign Against Hunger 

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

There are two shifts to choose from: 

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

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

Community District Needs Survey for Public Input!

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

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

You can fill out the survey online here.

Share Your Input Now!

Free Museum Passes

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

Fort Tryon Park Events

Fort Tryon Park hosts weekly activities for people of all ages.Visit here for the list of activities that will be going on in Fort Tryon Park during the rest of the month.

Morris-Jumel Mansion Events

As Manhattan’s oldest surviving residence, the Morris-Jumel Mansion, built-in 1765, preserves, collects and interprets history, culture, and the arts to explore inclusive narratives that engage and inspire diverse audiences.

Visit here to see what's happening at the Mansion.

Met Council on Housing Mutual Aid Tenants’ Rights Hotline

Met Council on Housing seeks bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers for their Mutual Aid Tenants’ Rights Hotline team. The hotline serves thousands of tenants all over the city every year. Hotline Team Members answer questions on common tenant issues, inform callers of their rights, and help them determine the best course of action to assert those rights. As part of their hotline team, you will be directly assisting tenants in need to fight against their predatory, abusive landlords and stay in their homes.

If you’re interested in joining the hotline team, please email katee@metcouncilonhousing.org and include any questions you may have about the position.

In solidarity, 

RJ